As we inch toward the new season, the ever-changing NFL landscape has player fantasy football values constantly on the move. Whether you’re used to the dynasty platform or are still learning the rules, let’s dive into the latest dynasty value of Hendon Hooker.
Hendon Hooker’s Dynasty Outlook and Value
In the days leading up to the 2023 NFL Draft, there were whispers that Hooker might make his way into the first round. Instead, he fell all the way to Round 3.
Of course, part of Hooker’s tumble can be attributed to his torn ACL. But before the draft, his doctor sent out a letter to all 32 teams saying he expects Hooker to be ready to play by the start of the season. It’s more likely that Hooker was never going to be a first-round pick.
Once you get out of the first round, the QB hit rate drops precipitously. Hooker has a lot working against him. Aside from third-round draft capital and the knee injury, he’s already 25 years old and has no prospect of starting as a rookie (barring a Jared Goff injury).
The earliest we could potentially see Hooker get a chance is in 2024, at which point he will already be 26 years old. It’s one thing for fantasy managers to invest in a speculative player with a high ceiling. It’s another thing to do it at an age where you’ve already lost 4-5 years of performance.
MORE: FREE 2024 NFL Mock Draft Simulator
As a talent, Hooker definitely has upside. He’s got good size at 6’3″, 217 pounds. He’s mobile, as just about every modern NFL quarterback must be. Hooker ran the ball 517 times for 2,079 yards and 25 touchdowns in his 45 college games.
Hooker was also prolific through the air, particularly in his two seasons at Tennessee, averaging just below a 69% completion percentage, 253 yards per game, and 2.4 touchdowns per game.
There’s definitely fantasy upside with the dual-threat quarterback. It’s just unclear when, or if, Hooker will get a chance.
Goff still has two years left on his contract. There have been conflicting reports from Goff himself and from Lions general manager Brad Holmes on whether the team has discussed an extension with the quarterback. Regardless, there does seem to be mutual interest, and Goff has performed well.
The Lions are the favorite to win the NFC North this year and are widely expected to have one of the league’s best offenses. If those things come to fruition, it stands to reason the Lions will extend Goff, locking in Hooker as his presumptive backup for likely the duration of Hooker’s rookie deal.
Hendon Hooker’s Fantasy Ranking
In single quarterback dynasty leagues, you need not concern yourself with Hooker. He’s a rookie quarterback who won’t start right away and has a bunch of red flags on his profile.
In Superflex leagues, Hooker is going to be drafted. So, you need to decide if you’re willing to take the shot. Despite his imperfect profile, there is upside here.
MORE: 2023 Dynasty Rookie Rankings
Hooker currently checks in at 3.03 in our dynasty Superflex rookie rankings. Given the low hit rate on third-round rookie picks, if you need a quarterback, Hooker is worth the shot.
Given the players around him, it’s more likely Hooker finds his way into fantasy value than the other guys. But it’s still a low-probability outcome. In dynasty startup drafts, you can take the shot late, but Hooker is not someone to prioritize.