Hendon Hooker discusses friendship with Joe Milton, how they push one another

Tennessee quarterbacks Hendon Hooker and Joe Milton have built a tight-knit friendship during their time together with the Volunteers. While they both play the same position and are constantly competing on the field, Hooker and Milton have a high level of respect for one another and push each other to be their very best – and that’s what makes them great teammates.

While Hooker – who threw for 2,945 yards and 31 touchdowns compared to only three interceptions last season – is expected to be Tennessee’s starting quarterback for the upcoming 2022 season, Mixon is still right there in the mix as the two have been battling throughout spring practices.

Although they’re always battling against each other, Hooker and Milton are also always encouraging each other. Meeting with reporters last week, Hooker discussed his friendship with Milton and how they push each other.

“Just like last year, he was a great support system when he went down and I came in,” Hooker said of Milton. “And whenever he’s in, I’m the same way. We’re each other’s biggest fans – and biggest critics, as well. Whenever I’m coming off the field, or I can still be on the field, I can hear Joe in the back like, ‘Hen, move that safety over,’ or ‘Work on your feet.’

“Just little things that definitely keep us both motivated to get better and push each other to be the best we can be.”

While Hooker put together a strong season for Tennessee in 2021, Milton also earned some playing time with the Volunteers – throwing for 375 yards and two touchdowns while appearing in eight games. Along with his passing numbers, Milton also rushed for 129 yards and two more touchdowns on 28 carries.

Hooker, Milton and Tennessee are scheduled to kickoff their 2022 season on Saturday, Sept. 3 against Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville.