The Detroit Lions have added depth to their quarterback lineup by signing Jake Fromm to their 16-man practice squad. This decision comes as the team looks to bolster its quarterback options behind starter Jared Goff and promising second-year pro Hendon Hooker. The move was reported by NFL Network on August 28, 2024.
Fromm initially joined the Lions in the middle of training camp, stepping in as a precautionary measure when Hooker suffered a concussion. Despite not taking practice snaps when sessions were open to the media, Fromm quickly impressed the coaching staff with his ability to adapt to the team’s offense. His standout performance came in the final preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he completed six of eight passes for 89 yards over two drives.
“Fromm — man I like Fromm,” said head coach Dan Campbell following the preseason finale, a 24-17 win. “The kid can play a little ball, there’s something about him. He understands where his answers are at, what to do with the football.”
Fromm’s signing is particularly noteworthy as it follows the release of veteran quarterback Nate Sudfeld. Sudfeld initially started training camp as the backup but was sidelined for the preseason finale. The Lions had first signed Sudfeld in 2022, but his season ended before it began due to a torn ACL suffered in training camp that year.
The Lions have now filled five spots on their practice squad, including players like former Broncos receiver Tim Patrick and edge rusher Mitchell Agude. The squad can include up to 16 players, providing the team with a flexible roster to address potential injuries and performance issues during the season.
It’s worth noting that earlier in the week, the NFLPA vetoed a change to the emergency third quarterback rule. The existing rules state that “an emergency third QB must be on the 53-man roster or as one of two standard elevations per week. An elevated QB would have to be active for the game rather than in the emergency role.”
Regardless, Fromm’s addition provides the Lions with a reliable backup who has already shown his capabilities during preseason play. His experience and quick adaptation to the team’s offense could prove invaluable as the season progresses, ensuring that the Lions have a well-prepared quarterback depth chart.
Fromm will likely remain on the practice squad unless there are injuries to Goff or Hooker, making his readiness crucial for the team’s strategy moving forward. This move underscores the Lions’ commitment to having a strong backup option, ensuring the stability and performance of their quarterback positions throughout the upcoming season.
