A dependable backfield presence for six seasons, Hook now takes his expertise to the next level with Philadelphia.
This time last year, it was former Toledo Rocket defensive back Quinyon Mitchell making noise at the NFL Draft after being selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the first round.
Now, Maxen Hook— Mitchell’s longtime teammate— is set to join him in the same defensive backfield, signing as an undrafted free agent with the Philadelphia Eagles on Saturday evening.
Hook was a valued leader both on special teams and in the defensive backfield from the safety position, winning a role in his true freshman season in 2020 before claiming a permanent starting position in 2021.
By the end of his tenure at Toledo, Hook would win four-straight placements on all-MAC teams— including three-straight placements on the all-MAC first-team defense from 2022-24— while also compiling 356 total tackles, 7.5 tackles-for-loss, two sacks, seven interceptions, 22 pass break-ups, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and a blocked kick over 52 games in Blue and Gold.
Hook’s intangibles are impressive as well, placing on the academic all-MAC team every year from 2021-24 with a bachelor’s in accounting and an MBA in leadership, as well as the academic All-American second-team in 2023 (with an additional nomination for academic All-American in 2021). Hook was also named a team captain in his final two seasons (2023 and 2024), a remarkable accomplishment considering the sheer depth of talent on his side of the ball.
Hook, who was one of the first to accept a Senior Bowl invite this season, was also invited to the NFL Combine— though he was unable to participate due to an injury picked up while in Mobile for Senior Bowl practices. While at the Senior Bowl, Hook impressed with his downhill playstyle and ability to close in on plays, even getting looks at linebacker alongside his usual safety work.
Hook has a long row to plow, as he will compete for playing time in a tough-as-nails defensive back room which already features 2025 draft pick Andrew Mukuba, former first-round pick Lewis Cine, and two steady contributors in Sydney Brown and Reed Blankenship.
Due to Philly’s sheer depth at safety, Hook might start on the practice squad, but his readiness to play special teams, along with his leadership skills and athletic profile, makes him a plus add to the Eagles.
Kent Lee Platte (RAS.football)