The Minnesota Vikings have been rolling through the first three weeks of the season, and they have done so without some key players. They get Jordan Addison and Dallas Turner back this week. They could add offensive talent in the form of T.J. Hockenson and Dalton Risner soon as well.
A boost for the Minnesota Vikings offense coming
T.J. Hockenson has been out since the end of last year after Kerby Joseph took out his acl on a low hit. He voiced his displeasure during the rehab process, but is now nearing a return. He could be joined by Dalton Risner as well. The guard re-signed this offseason and is expected to compete for time with Ed Ingram.
“We’ll have those discussions. He’s in a great spot. He continues to do all the little things right toward being a major, major part of our offense despite not being able to be out there.”
Kevin O’Connell on T.J. Hockenson’s return (Star Tribune)
Both Hockenson and Risner are eligible to return to practice this week. Each could come off IR during Week 5 in London. It doesn’t make a ton of sense for them to make that their 2024 debut, but each may target Week 7 after the bye.
Ingram has held down the starting spot, and Josh Oliver has been the lead tight end. Hockenson and Risner getting back into the lineup would give Kevin O’Connell some new options.
Sam Darnold gets a boost when Minnesota Vikings get healthy
The Minnesota Vikings have watched Sam Darnold play like an MVP to start the season. He has spread the ball to multiple offensive weapons, and it only benefits him to add in more. Jordan Addison gives the Vikings quarterback another receiver to look at, and he’s not far off from adding more help.
Hockenson has been among the best tight ends in the league since joining Minnesota. He is a dynamic player that can do it all in O’Connell’s offense. Darnold having both Hockenson and Oliver available on the line bolsters that side of the football.
The Vikings offensive line has done a good job keeping Darnold upright as well. Dalton Risner can rotate in to continue that pursuit. It’s possible that the guard doesn’t crack the starting lineup, but no matter what his presence will be felt.
