The Minnesota Vikings may be without T.J. Hockenson for the near future after he left the field during Saturday’s practice.
Vikings Wire’s Judd Zuglad tweeted that Hockenson left practice with what appeared to be an athletic trainer, though the reason remains unclear.
Hockenson left the field and appears headed inside with what looked to be an athletic trainer.
— Judd Zulgad (@jzulgad) August 5, 2023
Locked on Vikings’ Luke Braun reported earlier that Hockenson was “doing stretches in shorts,” and may not participate during the session.
TJ Hockenson doing stretches in shorts. Looks like he won’t participate today
— Luke Braun (@LukeBraunNFL) August 5, 2023
Hockenson’s departure from practice has opened up a sense of uncertainty around the purpose for him sitting out.
Some believe that T.J. Hockenson, who is in line for an extension, doesn’t want to risk injury before ink meets paper and, as a result, is taking it slow.
However, there is always a possibility that Hockenson suffered a minor injury. While it’s still unclear if Hockenson left with a trainer, seeing a player leave the field early will always prompt some concern.
Hockenson started ten games for the Vikings after being traded during the deadline. In those games, Hockenson recorded 519 yards and 3 touchdowns on 60 catches.