Hendon Hooker Lands with Tennessee Titans

Former New York Jets quarterback Hendon Hooker is getting a fresh start with the Tennessee Titans, according to a report by The Tennessean on Wednesday. He joins the Titans as a free agent, along with ex-Jets running back Michael Carter, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Jets Connections and Coaching Changes

While Hooker did not play under Titans head coach Robert Saleh during his time with the Jets, running back Michael Carter was drafted by Saleh in 2021. Carter was a fourth-round pick out of North Carolina. Hooker joined the Jets’ practice squad in December 2023 after being released by the Carolina Panthers.

Hooker's Path to Tennessee

Hooker was elevated to the Jets’ active roster in January under coach Aaron Glenn, who previously served as the Lions’ defensive coordinator when Hooker was drafted. The Jets finished the 2023-2024 season with a 3-14 record. Prior to the draft, Hooker was a Heisman candidate at the University of Tennessee, despite suffering a torn ACL which impacted his draft stock.

Limited NFL Experience

Since being drafted, Hooker has appeared in only three games, all in “garbage time” situations for the 2024 Detroit Lions while backing up Jared Goff. He will now compete for a roster spot with the Titans, who have Cam Ward entering his second year as the starting quarterback.

Carter's Journey Continues

Michael Carter played two full seasons for the Jets before being released mid-way through the 2023 season. He was then claimed off waivers by the Arizona Cardinals, where he played sporadically for the past three years.

Titans Rebuilding Effort

The Titans, who also signed veteran Mitchell Trubisky and have Will Levis returning from a shoulder injury, went 3-14 last season. They recently fired second-year coach Brian Callahan after a 1-5 start. Several other players from New York teams, including Wan’Dale Robinson, Cor’Dale Flott, and Daniel Bellinger, have also joined the Titans this offseason.