4 Quarterbacks Lions Should Watch at NFL Combine

Could Detroit draft competition for Hendon Hooker?

The Detroit Lions have not wavered in their commitment to Jared Goff at the quarterback position. 

With the veteran leading the organization to two playoff wins and an appearance in the NFC Championship, Goff has cemented himself as the quarterback of the future moving forward. 

Still, the team could use depth heading into the 2024 campaign. Teddy Bridgewater retired, making Hendon Hooker the only other passer currently on roster. Because of this, the Lions could elect to use a later-round pick on a quarterback.  

Here are four quarterbacks the Lions should scout at the NFL Scouting Combine this week in Indianapolis.

Michael Pratt, Tulane

Pratt was one of the better Group of Five passers, and helped lead Tulane to a Cotton Bowl victory in the 2022 season. A four-year starter for the Green Wave, he put up huge numbers with 9,611 passing yards and 90 touchdown passes. 

The experienced passer is smart and steady with his passes, but lacks with his accuracy on some throws down the field and outside the numbers. With only 26 interceptions across four seasons as a starter, he also has a track record of valuing the ball. 

Pratt still could use some polish if he is going to develop into an NFL starter. But, as a four-year starter, he would be a valuable depth addition to any quarterbacks room. With some development, he could develop into a draft day steal. 

Austin Reed, Western Kentucky

Reed has shades of Bailey Zappe, who was the Patriots' fourth-round pick in 2022 out of Western Kentucky. Reed, like his predecessor, began his career at a home outside of the FBS level. 

For Reed, it was a beginning at Division II University of West Florida. He won a national championship in 2019, and he threw 40 touchdowns that year. 

He transferred to play for the Hilltoppers after Zappe's departure, and he kept the offense humming at a high level. In two seasons, he threw for 8,086 yards and 71 touchdowns. 

Reed has plenty of arm strength, and did a lot of pre-snap processing while at Western Kentucky. But, switching from the high-powered Air Raid system to a more traditional Pro Style scheme could require an adjustment. 

Still, there's a lot to like about his potential as a passer. Currently projected as a Day 3 pick, he's definitely worth a shot in a competitive environment. 

How to Watch Top Prospects at 2024 NFL Combine

Spencer Rattler, South Carolina

Rattler is one of the more interesting prospects in the draft given his background. Once believed to be a Heisman favorite while at Oklahoma, Rattler was usurped by Caleb Williams and later transferred after the 2021 season. 

After transferring to South Carolina, Rattler was tasked with learning a new system and reviving his career. He struggled at the beginning of the 2022 season, but put a solid showing together down the stretch and was better in his final campaign. 

He had a strong Senior Bowl, winning MVP of the game, and has started to generate more buzz. Not long ago, he was viewed as a potential top pick, and his arm talent hasn't changed. 

Rattler can cut it loose, and also has the ability to move in the pocket. If he can put together a strong showing in Indianapolis, he could work his way further up the quarterback class. 

Sam Hartman, Notre Dame

Another experienced passer at the college level is Hartman, who spent five seasons at Wake Forest before transferring to Notre Dame. He had one of the most statistically productive careers ever, as he finished fifth in career passing yards. 

Hartman is a disciplined passer who has the ability to drive the ball downfield, along with the mobility to escape the pocket and get downfield. 

He still needs to fine-tune some of his mechanics, but there's a lot to like about his potential as a long-term backup and spot starter in the future. His experience playing in multiple schemes will make him an asset in quarterback rooms.