The Tennessee Titans are making waves by bringing Hendon Hooker back to familiar territory. The former Detroit Lions and New York Jets quarterback is returning to the state where he dazzled fans during his college days with the Volunteers. This move adds another layer to the Titans' quarterback depth chart, which is shaping up to be quite intriguing.
Hooker, who wrapped up last season with the Jets, found himself in a pivotal role as the emergency third-string quarterback. Injuries to Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor meant Hooker was just a heartbeat away from stepping onto the field, serving as the backup to Brady Cook.
Now, the Titans boast a quarterback roster that includes former No. 1 pick Cam Ward, seasoned backup Mitch Trubisky, Hooker, and 2023 second-round pick Will Levis. It's a lineup that speaks to their strategic planning for the future.
Meanwhile, the New York Jets are still piecing together their quarterback puzzle. With Geno Smith leading the charge, there's a palpable need for a seasoned backup. The last thing Jets fans want is to see Cook under center again anytime soon.
This brings us to the intriguing possibility: could Hooker's signing open the door for the Jets to make a move for Will Levis?
Levis, who was the 33rd overall pick in the 2023 draft, seems to be the odd man out in Tennessee's revamped quarterback room. With no direct ties to Titans' GM Mike Borgonzi or the new coaching staff led by Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, Levis might just be what the Jets need-a quarterback with real starting experience ready to step up if Smith faces any setbacks.
Levis' stats tell a compelling story: in 21 career starts, he's completed 61% of his passes, racking up 3,899 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. While his 5-16 record as a starter might not turn heads, at just 26 years old, there's still potential for growth. Imagine what could unfold if offensive guru Frank Reich gets to work with him.
While Levis might not be the long-term solution for the Jets, he could certainly serve as a reliable backup and even mentor a rookie in 2027 if Smith's tenure doesn't go as planned.
Jets GM Darren Mougey already has a solid rapport with Borgonzi, with a couple of trades under their belts since Mougey took over, including deals for Jarvis Brownlee Jr. and T'Vondre Sweat.
Levis stands out as a promising backup quarterback option on the market, and if the Jets find the price agreeable, it might be a move worth making.