While Hendon Hooker may not seem like a highly sought-after trade asset, Rodney Harrison has suggested a reasonable trade partner for the Lions’ backup quarterback.

For those reading between the lines, Hooker’s future with the Detroit Lions appears uncertain. From discussions about carrying three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster last summer to his struggle to secure the No. 2 spot over Nate Sudfeld, to the Lions’ rumored interest in Daniel Jones last season.

The late-season addition of Teddy Bridgewater, who became Jared Goff’s backup during the playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, adds more intrigue to the situation.

Looking at the facts, Hooker turned 27 in January (for reference, Lamar Jackson turned 28 in January). He’s now midway through his rookie contract, and with Goff signed through 2028, Hooker’s role is increasingly unclear.

Though some have suggested Hooker could be a cut candidate, the Lions may still find a trade partner. Had Ben Johnson taken a head coaching position elsewhere, it’s possible he might’ve tried to bring Hooker with him.

During Friday’s episode of “PFT Live” with Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, as the discussion about the Jets’ quarterback situation after moving on from Aaron Rodgers unfolded, Florio asked, “What do you (the Jets) do next?” NBC “Sunday Night Football” analyst Rodney Harrison quickly offered his thoughts.

“I’m gonna tell ya exactly what I’m gonna do,” Harrison said. “I’m gonna call Detroit, and say ‘hey, I’m very interested in Hendon Hooker, your backup quarterback.’ He’s healthy, he was a Heisman guy until he got hurt at Tennessee.

I think this young man, I’ve seen him often, he’s big, he’s smart, he’s an older guy because he spent so much time in college… he’s very mature. But I would trade for Hendon Hooker. Watch out for that name.”

Harrison further pointed out how Jets head coach Aaron Glenn had faced Hooker in practice when Glenn was the Lions’ defensive coordinator. Harrison also praised Hooker over the top quarterbacks in this year’s draft class, like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward, calling him a “hidden gem.”