The Detroit Lions already have a reliable starter at quarterback in Jared Goff, but adding a young signal-caller through the draft is still a logical move for long-term depth.

Back in January at the East–West Shrine Bowl, reporter Mike Payton of A to Z Sports noted that Detroit’s staff spent significant time speaking with Haynes King after his throwing session. That interaction could signal genuine interest in the quarterback, although it’s also possible the team was gathering information about some of his Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets teammates, such as wide receiver Eric Rivers or offensive lineman Keylan Rutledge.

If Detroit is evaluating King as a potential draft target, they may not be alone. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, King has already met with both the Atlanta Falcons and the Carolina Panthers. Atlanta would be a particularly familiar setting for him since he spent his college career playing in the city.

Both teams present intriguing scenarios for a developmental quarterback. The Falcons recently signed Tua Tagovailoa despite drafting Michael Penix Jr. early in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Meanwhile, the Panthers reached the playoffs unexpectedly with Bryce Young—the former No. 1 overall pick—leading the way. Still, neither team’s long-term quarterback situation is entirely settled, which makes grooming a rookie behind their starters a sensible approach.

Detroit’s situation at quarterback is more stable thanks to Goff, who continues to deliver productive seasons filled with passing yards and touchdowns. Still in the prime of his career, he provides consistency for the offense. The bigger question lies behind him on the depth chart.

At the moment, the Lions have Teddy Bridgewater serving as Goff’s backup. The experiment with Hendon Hooker didn’t pan out as hoped, and Kyle Allen departed in free agency to join the Buffalo Bills. That leaves Detroit heavily reliant on Goff, who will turn 32 this season and still has a couple of years remaining on his current contract. Even if the team isn’t actively searching for his successor, improving quarterback depth would still be wise.

Why King is drawing attention

King was never initially viewed as a top-tier quarterback prospect. Early projections suggested he would likely be selected late in the draft or potentially go undrafted. Some evaluators have even suggested he could transition into a versatile offensive weapon similar to Taysom Hill.

That idea might not be far-fetched for Detroit. Lions head coach Dan Campbell previously worked as a tight ends coach with the New Orleans Saints during the years Hill carved out his unique hybrid role.

Despite modest pre-draft expectations, King significantly boosted his stock at the NFL Scouting Combine. He recorded a 4.46-second time in the 40-yard dash, an impressive mark for a quarterback. Only Taylen Green ran faster among quarterbacks this year with a 4.36. King’s time also ranks among the five fastest recorded by a quarterback at the Combine over the past two decades.

Of course, raw speed doesn’t always translate to long-term NFL success. For example, Anthony Richardson posted a slightly faster time but eventually lost his starting job to Daniel Jones with the Indianapolis Colts. Even so, King’s athletic profile stands out. His Relative Athletic Score (RAS) came in at an impressive 9.61 out of 10, ranking him among the most athletic quarterback prospects since 1987. The main concerns scouts have raised revolve around his size.

Another factor is his age. King turned 25 in January, making him older than many quarterbacks entering the draft. Still, teams may see value in his experience, athletic ability, and versatility. Those traits could make him an intriguing option for offenses looking to add creative elements or unique packages.

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, King remains one of the more fascinating quarterback prospects to watch. After his strong Combine showing, interest around the league is likely to continue growing. Additional team visits could follow in the coming weeks, and whether the Lions become one of those suitors will be something worth watching closely.