In a devastating blow for the Minnesota Vikings, star tight end T.J. Hockenson is set to miss the remainder of the season after tests revealed a double ligament tear in his right knee. Coach Kevin O’Connell made the announcement on Tuesday, following the team’s 30-24 loss to the Detroit Lions on Sunday. The torn ACL and MCL ligaments will require Hockenson to undergo surgery, and he will be placed on injured reserve.
The injury occurred during the Vikings’ second offensive play in the third quarter when Hockenson, who had been having an outstanding season, made a leaping catch for a 24-yard pass. A hit to the knee from Lions safety Kerby Joseph forced him to leave the game immediately. Coach O’Connell expressed sorrow over the unfortunate incident, emphasizing the risks associated with low hits and describing it as an “awful” sight.
Despite the setback, O’Connell remains optimistic about Hockenson’s recovery, stating, “Knowing T.J., the type of player he is, I’m absolutely looking forward to when we can get him back rolling and ready to have a great 2024 season.” Hockenson had been a standout performer for the Vikings, ranking second in the NFL in catches by tight ends (95) and third in receiving yards (960), providing a crucial offensive threat amid injuries to quarterback Kirk Cousins and receiver Justin Jefferson.
Since his trade from the Lions at the 2022 deadline, Hockenson leads all NFL tight ends with 155 receptions and has signed a lucrative four-year contract extension in August, valued at least $66 million and up to $68.5 million.
With Hockenson sidelined, the Vikings will turn to veteran tight ends Josh Oliver and Johnny Mundt, who have a combined 27 receptions this season. Second-year player Nick Muse is also on the roster but has yet to see game action.
In addition to Hockenson’s injury, O’Connell confirmed that linebacker D.J. Wonnum suffered a torn left quadriceps during Sunday’s game, ending his season. Despite achieving a career-high eight sacks this season, Wonnum will be eligible for free agency in the winter.
Furthermore, two other players, receiver Jordan Addison (ankle) and cornerback Mekhi Blackmon (shoulder), who left the game with injuries, are considered day-to-day according to O’Connell. The Vikings now face significant challenges in overcoming these key injuries as they navigate the remainder of the season.
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