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Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson was the eighth overall pick by the Detroit Lions in the 2019 NFL Draft. Hockenson had a productive college career, totaling 73 receptions for 1,080 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in his two years at Iowa.
The former Hawkeye had a quiet rookie season, totaling 32 receptions on 59 targets for 367 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Hockenson’s numbers improved the following year, totaling 67 receptions on 101 targets for 723 receiving yards and six touchdowns in 2020.
Unfortunately, the veteran tight end saw his numbers decline the next year. Hockenson missed five games because of injury, ending the season with 61 receptions on 84 targets for 583 receiving yards and four touchdowns in 12 contests. While he dealt with injuries in 2021, Hockenson had high expectations last season.
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What Did T.J. Hockenson Accomplish In 2022?
The veteran tight end started last year with the Lions. Hockenson had 26 receptions on 43 targets for 395 receiving yards and three touchdowns. The former Iowa star finished fourth on the team in receiving touchdowns despite playing only seven games with the Lions.
Detroit traded Hockenson to the Vikings after 3.5 years with the franchise. The veteran tight end was Jared Goff’s No. 2 pass catcher behind Amon-Ra St. Brown before getting traded. However, the Lions felt the franchise was better off getting draft picks for the former Iowa star than keeping him around long-term.
Meanwhile, the veteran was outstanding with the Vikings. Hockenson had 60 receptions on 86 targets for 519 receiving yards and three touchdowns in 10 games with Minnesota. More importantly, he became a reliable target for Kirk Cousins in the red zone.
Is T.J. Hockenson Injured Or Healthy?
The star tight end hasn’t been practicing lately. Some believe Hockenson isn’t practicing because he wants a long-term extension. The former Iowa star is entering the final year of his rookie contract. After making the pro bowl last season, the veteran is arguably due for a long-term deal. However, head coach Kevin O’Connell says Hockenson has been battling an illness.
While some believe Hockenson is using the illness to pressure the front office into giving him a long-term contract, that’s unlikely. More importantly, it means the veteran tight end is healthy. Therefore, there is no reason to think he won’t be on the field come Week 1.
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