Vikings’ Tight End T.J. Hockenson Sparks Online Buzz with Candid Remarks to NFL Amidst Knee Injury
After being sidelined with two torn knee ligaments in December, Vikings’ tight end T.J. Hockenson addressed the media on Monday for the first time since the unfortunate incident.
Reflecting on the play that led to his injury, Hockenson expressed his thoughts on Lions safety Kerby Joseph’s low tackle that resulted in the damage to his knee. He shared his discomfort at witnessing a similar injury suffered by Rams tight end Tyler Higbee due to a similar tackle by Joseph in January.
Acknowledging that such incidents may not be intentional, Hockenson emphasized the need for the league to examine such plays, especially when they result in severe injuries.
With a nine-month recovery period ahead of him, Hockenson faces the possibility of missing the start of the regular season following surgery to repair his torn ACL. Despite aiming for a comeback by October, he emphasized that the team’s training staff hasn’t set a definite timeline for his return.
Entering his sixth season in the NFL, Hockenson questioned the allowance of tackles like the one that caused his injury, emphasizing the risks involved and the need for player safety.
The sentiment against such plays is echoed by safety Harrison Smith and others, who have criticized the league’s rules and their impact on player safety.
During his recovery, Hockenson has been diligently working with trainers, focusing on regaining strength and stability in his knee. Despite the challenges, he remains optimistic about his progress and eventual return to the field.
While a Week 1 return remains uncertain, Hockenson’s determination and daily improvements are indicative of his commitment to overcoming this setback.
As he navigates through his recovery journey, Hockenson’s resilience serves as an inspiration, reminding us all of the perseverance required to overcome adversity in the world of professional sports.
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