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Former Tennessee Vols QB Hendon Hooker already has a new number with the Carolina Panthers after first getting issued No. 16

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated Sep 1, 2025 1:39 PM ET

Former Tennessee Vols quarterback Hendon Hooker has already had a number switch with the Carolina Panthers.

Hooker, who was signed to the Panthers' practice squad after getting released by the Detroit Lions in late August, was issued No. 16 when he first arrived in Charlotte last week.

The former Vol is now wearing No. 12 with the Panthers, according to The Charlotte Observer's Mike Kaye.

Hendon Hooker is now No. 12, Dalevon Campbell is now No. 81. #Panthers
— Mike Kaye (@mike_e_kaye) September 1, 2025

Hooker, a third round selection by the Lions in the 2023 NFL Draft, is looking to reboot his career in his home state after failing to win the backup quarterback job in Detroit.

“I just wanted to go somewhere where I’m wanted,” said Hooker last week after signing with the Panthers. “And wanted to develop and learn. And Coach (Canales) said that he would like me to come learn under him, and we have a great bond from the draft process. Just reminiscing on the talks that we had then, I’m eager to learn from him.”

Former Alabama standout Bryce Young is the Panthers' starting quarterback. Veteran Andy Dalton is the current primary backup. The hope in Carolina is that Hooker can develop into a longterm backup option for Young.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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