Panthers Make Two Roster Moves Ahead of Bills Game
The Carolina Panthers are shoring up their quarterback depth and pass-rushing options before Sunday’s home matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
Starting quarterback Bryce Young is unlikely to play after suffering a reported high ankle sprain during last week’s win over the New York Jets. Though officially listed as doubtful, the Panthers plan to start Andy Dalton under center.
That left Carolina needing a new backup quarterback. Earlier in the week, the team added veteran Mike White to the practice squad, but he’ll remain there for now. Head coach Dave Canales confirmed Friday that Hendon Hooker will be elevated to serve as Dalton’s backup.
The Panthers made that move official on Saturday, promoting Hooker from the practice squad.
A Greensboro native, Hooker started his college career at Virginia Tech before transferring to Tennessee, where he broke out as a star in 2021. That season, he threw for 2,945 yards, completing 68% of his passes with 31 touchdowns and just three interceptions, leading the SEC with a 181.4 passer rating. In 2022, he followed up with 3,135 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and only two interceptions, again topping the conference with a 175.5 rating.
While not as dynamic as Cam Newton in his prime, Hooker brings solid mobility, averaging around 500 rushing yards and five touchdowns per season in college. Still, barring an injury or blowout, he’s unlikely to see action this week.
Carolina also promoted outside linebacker Boogie Basham from the practice squad. A second-round pick by the Bills in 2021, Basham has appeared in 42 career games, recording 4.5 sacks and 59 tackles. He’s already played in two games for the Panthers this season, logging 20 defensive snaps and nine on special teams.
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