Minnesota Vikings Offense Set To Get A Boost On Sunday

He went down with a season-ending ACL tear in Week 17 of the 2023 season. But not before putting up a career-high 960 yards, 95 catches and five touchdowns. It’s been a long ten months of recovery for the tight end. But now the Minnesota Vikings Offense is set to get a boost this coming Sunday with the return of T.J. Hockenson. He’ll be another weapon for QB Sam Darnold while also taking some of the attention away from WR superstar Justin Jefferson. Darnold wasn’t with the Vikings last season, he was with the 49ers. But watching from afar, Darnold told the Minneapolis Star Tribune:

“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,” said Darnold. 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.”

The Indianapolis Colts will be playing against the Vikings on Sunday Night Football. Hockenson is very much looking forward to making his debut nine months since having surgery. He says that he is stronger and better than he was 10 months ago. Although he recognizes that he draws the attention of defenders he isn’t worried about it because the Vikings have too many other weapons to contend with. Hockenson shared his thoughts on the issue:

It’s kind of a feel thing [against zone]. You can weave in and out within the concept. Winning man-to-man, we have Jets [Justin Jefferson], so …they can’t double everybody. It leaves me one-on-one with a backer, nickel, and a safety. That’s fun for me. I enjoy that.”

It sounds like Hockenson is looking forward to any challenges the Colts might try to throw at their offense.

Minnesota Vikings Offense Set To Get A Boost On Sunday

Head coach Kevin O’Connell has complete confidence in Hockenson’s return telling reporters:

“I think T.J. is ready to play, as good as he has really looked since we’ve gotten him here, and that’s saying something considering the impact he made right away in ’22 and then the season he was having last year at the time when he got hurt,” O’Connell said. “I know he is excited. Everyone is excited to have him back out there. Huge part of our system and offense and organization to have 87 back out there.”

Vikings Offensive Coordinator Wes Phillips is also looking forward to welcoming Hockenson back to the group. He says there are multiple ways Hockenson’s abilities and versatility can impact games. I can’t wait to see how Hockenson contributes to the game on Sunday, it should be fun to watch.

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