ESPN has been rolling out positional rankings for the past week and the latest is one that shows what the NFL thinks of T.J. Hockenson. The former Detroit Lions came to Minnesota in a trade back in 2022 and has since carved out a dynamic role within Kevin O’Connell’s offense.
That role he has is recognized league wide as the fifth-best tight end in the NFL, according to a poll from ESPN. Within the piece compiled by Jeremy Fowler, he quotes one offensive coordinator who explains what sets Hockenson apart from others.
“His zone instincts are elite, the ability to manipulate areas and get friendly to the QB, his ability to win on choice routes in level two and create leverage vs. linebackers or defensive backs. . .”
Hockenson was able to do that and more before he was injured on Christmas Eve against the Detriot Lions. There have been reports that he could start the season on the PUP list which would ironically have him set to return against the Lions at the earliest.
So far in his Vikings career, Hockenson 155 receptions, 1,479 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns through two seasons.