In an exciting development for the Minnesota Vikings, the team is set to open the much-anticipated 21-day practice window for their Pro Bowl tight end, TJ Hockenson, starting this Friday. This decision showcases the Vikings’ commitment to bringing their star player back onto the field in top form.
Coach Kevin O’Connell expressed optimism during Wednesday’s press briefing, highlighting that Hockenson is making significant progress in his recovery. This puts him ahead of fellow teammate Dalton Risner, who, unfortunately, remains on the physically incapacitated list.
While Hockenson won’t be suited up to join the active 53-man roster for Week 5, when the Vikings (currently holding a spotless 4-0 record) take on the New York Jets (2-2) in London, fans can look forward to his potential return post the Vikings’ Week 6 bye.
The Vikings have strategically opened this practice window, allowing them a 21-day period to evaluate and activate Hockenson. The goal? To see him potentially take the field as soon as Week 7 against his former team, the Detroit Lions.
As for Dalton Risner, his struggle continues as he recovers from a back injury sustained in August. His journey back is particularly unfortunate, given his solid performance with 11 starts for the Vikings last season.
Hockenson’s journey back to the gridiron has been a challenging one. The dynamic tight end faced a major setback on December 24th, tearing both the ACL and MCL in a heartbreaking 30-24 defeat at the hands of the Lions. Post-surgery in January, Hockenson has been diligently working towards a full recovery.
At just 27, Hockenson has already secured two Pro Bowl selections in his impressive six-year NFL career. Originally the eighth overall pick by the Lions in the 2019 NFL Draft, he found a new home with the Vikings in 2022. With a career tally of 3,547 receiving yards and 23 touchdowns across 72 games (60 starts), his return promises to be a game-changer for the Vikings’ offense.
Let’s not forget the powerful impact he made prior to his injury last season, where he recorded 95 receptions on 127 targets for 960 yards and five touchdowns. The NFL world eagerly awaits the return of this offensive weapon, and all eyes will be on Minnesota to see what magic Hockenson can conjure up on his return!
