T.J. Hockenson Timeline Pushed Back?

The Minnesota Vikings placed placed TJ Hockenson on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, entering the season. That meant at least four weeks without him on the roster. After previous reports made a week 5 return seem plausible, that doesn’t appear to be the case anymore.

Minnesota Vikings will be without T.J. Hockenson for a while

The Vikings fly overseas in week 5, for an international date with the New York Jets, in London. Up until Thursday, it was also the target date for Hockenson to return. This morning, though, ESPN’s Dan Graziano threw a bucket of cold water on those UK dreams. Now, the “loose” target is week 7, vs the Los Angeles Rams .

“The Vikings are loosely targeting a Week 7 or so return for tight end T.J. Hockenson ( torn ACL and MCL ) “

Dan Graziano on T.J. Hockenson (ESPN)

There isn’t a massive gap between Week 5 and Week 7, and the Vikings have a week 6 bye, so giving him that extra week of rest makes sense. Nonetheless, two weeks is later than previously reported, and the “loosely” might as well say “shaky”, because that’s how it feels.

Could the Vikings be forced to play half (or more) of their season without their star tight end? Last year, the TJ racked up a career-best 960 yards , in just 15 games. His five touchdowns were just one off of a career-high.

He would have been a great security blanket for Sam Darnold, as he transitions into the Minnesota Vikings offense. Now, he could be without him longer than expected.

How can Vikings overcome pro bowl absence?

Justin Jefferson is healthy out of the gate , and Jordan Addison is expected to take another step . That tandem will do most of the heavy lifting for the passing game. Josh Oliver and Johnny Mundt have both proven themselves as capable tight ends, and Aaron Jones is a nice new addition.

Related: Surprise Player Expected to Benefit from TJ Hockenson’s Absence

C.J. Ham can also be a wideout from the backfield, and new third wideout Jalen Nailor will have plenty of opportunity if he can stay healthy. It’s on head coach Kevin O’Connell to keep this offense in rhythm, no matter who is on the field.

Hockenson isn’t a player the Vikings can replace. A multitude of guys will have to step up, on offense, in order to help fill his shoes.

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• Vikings Bringing in Punter Competition for Ryan Wright