T.J. Hockenson, the star tight end for the Minnesota Vikings, is set to begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list after suffering a torn ACL and MCL in a game against the Detroit Lions last year. This unfortunate injury will sideline him for the first four games of the upcoming season, according to reports from Adam Schefter. However, there is hope that Hockenson will be able to make a comeback later in the season.
The absence of Hockenson will undoubtedly be felt by the Vikings, who are already facing other challenges. With quarterback Kirk Cousins leaving in free agency and his replacement, rookie JJ McCarthy, out for the season due to injury, the team will turn to Sam Darnold as the starting QB. Additionally, starting wide receiver Jordan Addison is battling an ankle injury that may jeopardize his availability for the season opener. As a result, star receiver Justin Jefferson is expected to shoulder a heavy workload, building on his impressive average of 144 targets per season.
Hockenson, who previously played for the Detroit Lions before being traded to the Vikings in 2022, had a successful 2023 season, recording 95 catches for 960 yards and five touchdowns. Despite his individual success, the Vikings fell short in the playoffs, with Hockenson contributing 10 receptions for 129 yards in a wild card loss to the New York Giants.
As the Vikings navigate through these challenges, they will look to their depth chart and coaching staff to fill the void left by Hockenson’s absence. The team’s resilience and ability to adapt will be tested in the early part of the season, but with determination and a strong game plan, they will aim to overcome these obstacles and compete at a high level.