The Minnesota Vikings are one of the best teams in the NFL, and they just got even better. Two-time Pro Bowl tight end TJ Hockenson has finally risen from the ashes.
The Vikings announced that tight end TJ Hockenson is finally healthy with a “HE’S BAAAAACK 😎” post, complete with a highlight video, via their social media.
Hockenson has been out since suffering a torn ACL and MCL in Week 16 last season. However, the 27-year-old is now off the injury report, via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
“Vikings TE T.J. Hockenson is off the injury report and will make his season debut Sunday night against the #Colts,” Pelissero reported.
Will Hockenson help the Minnesota beat the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday Night Football?
TJ Hockenson should open up the Vikings' offense
Minnesota quarterback Sam Darnold has faith that Hockenson can be a game-changer, via the Minneapolis Star Tribune's Mark Craig.
“Just watching it last year and talking to him, it's his ability to separate versus man [coverage] and find the open spots in zones,” Darnold said Wednesday. “I think he's just really smart and savvy in the way he can get open that way. I'm just really looking forward to it.”
Vikings star wideout Justin Jefferson will command most of the defensive attention, leaving Hockenson more space to work in the middle of the field. Minnesota is at 5-2 with average tight end production thus far, as backups Johnny Mundt and Josh Oliver have combined for 165 yards and three touchdowns.
“It's kind of a feel thing [against zone],” Hockenson said. “You can weave in and out within the concept. Winning man to man, we have Jets (Jefferson), so … they can't double everybody. It leaves me one-on-one with a backer, a nickel, a safety. That's fun for me. I enjoy that.”
A Pro Bowl tight end matched up one-on-one with a linebacker or safety is something the offense will take every time. However, the players still have to execute, and Hockenson must prove that he still has his mojo after a long time off.
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