One writer believes the Detroit Lions should have passed on Hendon Hooker for Joe Milton
A recent article by a local writer has stirred up some controversy by asserting that Detroit Lions General Manager Brad Holmes made a mistake in the 2023 NFL Draft by selecting quarterback Hendon Hooker. Mike Payton of A to Z Sports claims that the Lions picked the wrong Tennessee quarterback and should have waited to draft Joe Milton in the 2024 NFL Draft. Mike is certainly entitled to his opinion, but I’m afraid I have to disagree with him.
The Case Against Joe Milton
Payton argues that Milton would be a better fit for the Lions due to his youth, superior arm strength, and athleticism. He describes Milton as a “ball of clay” that merely requires the right coaching to excel. However, this opinion overlooks a crucial aspect of Milton’s game: his accuracy. Even under the guidance of Jim Harbaugh at Michigan, Milton struggled to develop into an accurate passer. Despite possessing a formidable arm, Milton’s lack of precision on vertical passes and essential NFL routes is a significant concern.
The Defense of Hendon Hooker
As a die-hard Michigan football fan, I have always supported Joe Milton. Yet, it’s clear that his arm strength alone is not enough to guarantee success in the NFL. Accuracy is a non-negotiable skill for quarterbacks at the professional level, and Milton’s shortcomings in this area cannot be overlooked.
Regarding Hooker, I believe the Lions’ intention in drafting him was not to find a replacement for Jared Goff but rather to secure a reliable backup. Hooker’s skill set aligns with the Lions’ current strategy, and selecting Joe Milton would have been an unnecessary gamble for a team aiming to contend for a Super Bowl.
TL;DR (too long didn’t read)
- A local writer suggests the Detroit Lions should have drafted Joe Milton instead of Hendon Hooker.
- Milton’s lack of accuracy is a significant concern despite his strong arm.
- Hooker is seen as a strategic choice for the Lions, fitting their current needs and goals.
The Bottom Line
The Detroit Lions did not err in their decision to draft Hendon Hooker. His selection is a strategic move that supports the team’s immediate goals, whereas opting for Joe Milton would have introduced unwarranted risk without a clear path to improvement in the essential area of accuracy. Trust in Brad Holmes!
