Detroit Lions tight end T.J. Hockenson endured a rough 2019 NFL season. Regardless, it appears he still managed to catch the eye of Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez in the process.

Hockenson struggled to find his footing as a rookie. According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Gonzalez is still convinced that he has a bright future ahead of him.

“He’s off to such a great start,” Gonzalez said. “And like I said, you just got to keep taking it to that next level and you got to keep challenging him. And hopefully I’ll get a chance to talk to him. I talked to all these tight ends, young tight ends in the league, so if you do see him, tell him to reach out to me because to me that’s what separates the good ones from the great ones.”

This is certainly some high praise coming from Gonzalez. If Hockenson takes notice of the comments, he would be wise to do what he can contact the Hall of Fame for some tips on how to improve.

The Lions made quite the investment wench they took Hockenson with the eighth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, he largely failed to fit the billing as a former first-round pick after hauling in just 32 receptions for 367 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games.

Although Hockenson may still be trying to adjust to the next level, he clearly has the talent to emerge into an impact player. Perhaps one or two sessions with Gonzalez could help to pay huge dividends for his development.