Lions rookie quarterback Hendon Hooker in line to start practicing this week

The wait, and the wondering, seems to be over. According to head coach Dan Campbell during his Monday presser, Lions rookie quarterback Hendon Hooker is expected to practice this week.

"I think we will (when asked if them would starting Hooker's practice window). Brad and I talked about it last week, I just don't want to sit here and tell you and then we don't do it and I lied to you," Campbell explained. "That's all. I think we will, but we'll see." 

Upon his return to practice, the Lions would then have 21 days to put Hooker on the active roster or place him on season-ending IR. Being on the active roster would be a notable step for him, and an important ramp up.

What will happen when Hendon Hooker starts practicing? Or is put on the active roster?

Campbell talked about the importance of getting Hooker on the practice field, and/or ultimately on the 53-man roster.

"By rules, we can't coach him," Campbell said. "We can have him in meetings, but he can't be out there and going through any fundamental work. You just kind of got to stand there. That's where it helps, to be able to actually do individual work with him, have him take a snap. That's why it's big. It would be nice to be able to do some of those things with him. That's why you have to get him on the roster. Otherwise, the rules don't allow for him to do any of that."

Hooker being put on the 53-man roster, should it happen, does not mean as much as some Lions' fans may hope. He is not going to unseat the currently struggling Jared Goff late this season, or necessarily ever. He may not even suit up for games, even as the emergency third quarterback.

But truly practicing and being on the active roster is a notable step for Hooker, and it was always the expectation he would be ramped up to practice at some point this season. The time is coming.