The Minnesota Vikings are on a short week looking to rebound from their loss against the Detroit Lions. The active roster has more than a few positions that could see changes, but one gets an early indication as to what will take place.
T.J. Hockenson has not yet played this season for the Vikings, but he seemed very close to being ready on Sunday against Detroit. With the Vikings now deciding to move on from veteran Robert Tonyan it appears they have tipped their hand at the skill position.
Bo Richter paves way for Minnesota Vikings T.J. Hockenson
Last weekend the Vikings squared off against T.J. Hockenson’s former Detroit Lions team. It would have made sense for him to be active and make an impact on the game. Instead, Kevin O’Connell and the powers that be decided to keep him out. Robert Tonyan was released on Tuesday, promoting Bo Richter to the active roster, and making it certain that Hockenson will return.
The Vikings starting tight end has been out since Lions defensive back Kerby Joseph took him out on a dirty hit last season. Minnesota jumped out to a 5-1 record in 2024 to set themselves off on a good for. O’Connell getting Hockenson back into the starting lineup is hardly a bad thing, and quarterback Sam Darnold immediately gets a boost.
Richter flashed during the preseason and can be a difference maker on defense. It remains to be seen what sort of run he will generate in the short term. You can bet that Hockenson quickly becomes a focal point of the offense, however.
What does T.J. Hockenson bring to the Minnesota Vikings?
The reality is that the Minnesota Vikings never had a replacement for T.J. Hockenson. That shouldn’t be a shock given his Pro Bowl-caliber ability. Hockenson is an adept talent in all facets of the tight end position. He can block, lead, and catch. He’ll quickly be a focal point of the offense moving forward.
In his absence the Vikings have relied on blocking tight end Josh Oliver, and veteran backup Johnny Mundt. Hockenson can accomplish both of their traits at a higher level, and immediately transform the Vikings offense. Darnold has proven capable to this point, but the additional of a talent like Hockenson only takes him further forward.
Darnold has developed a chemistry with receivers like Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. He believes that Aaron Jones can generate first downs. He’ll now be able to learn on Hockenson’s ability to contribute as well, and that will take the Minnesota offense to an entirely new level.
As the Vikings look to rebound from their first loss of the season, getting healthier is hardly a bad thing. Hockenson is the first step in that path forward, and whatever Bo Richter can do as a replacement becomes a nice caveat.
