The Minnesota Vikings are one of the best stories of the 2024 NFL season so far. Vikings fans were crushed when they learned that J.J. McCarthy will miss his rookie season. Thankfully, veteran Sam Darnold has stepped in and played the best season of his NFL career. Minnesota will get another shot in the arm on offense soon after a positive injury update.
The Vikings have officially opened the practice window for tight end T.J. Hockenson, who returns to practice on Friday. This gives Hockenson a full three weeks of practice before he makes his 2024 Vikings debut.
Hockenson traveled with the team to London ahead of Minnesota's Week 5 matchup against the New York Jets.
The star tight end has been on the PUP list after suffering a torn ACL during a Christmas Eve game against his old team, the Detroit Lions, towards the end of the 2023 season. Participating in practice is a huge step forward for Hockenson, who now has three weeks to prove that he is ready to return to action.
If Hockenson performs well during practice, he will likely return in Week 8 against the Los Angeles Rams.
Ultimately, the Vikings have until October 25th, 21 days from today, to make a final decision on Hockenson for the season.
T.J. Hockenson could add another weapon to hot Vikings offense
The Vikings do not seem like they are desperate for weapons on offense. Minnesota is 4-0 and looking the best they have in several seasons.
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This is what makes it so exciting to add Hockenson to the mix. Hockenson could help take the Vikings offense to another level and give them an edge against teams down the stretch. This is especially intriguing because teams don't have tape on Hockenson this season, so he could provide new wrinkles the Vikings can exploit in crucial late-season games.
Hockenson had his best statistical season of his career in 2023. He hauled in 95 receptions for 960 yards and five touchdowns. Hockenson also led the team in targets with 127 despite only playing in 15 games.
The one unknown for Hockenson this season is his chemistry with QB Sam Darnold. The pair will need to forge a close bond quickly during practice if Minnesota wants to get the most out of their high-priced tight end.
