If the Minnesota Vikings want to return to the postseason, they will have to do so without standout tight end T.J. Hockenson.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed on Tuesday that Hockenson had season-ending ACL and MCL injuries. The coach also stated that pass rusher D.J. Wonnum, who was enjoying a spectacular season, sustained a torn quad.
“I confirmed with D.J. Wonnum that he did damage his quad. He will be placed on injured reserve, and he hopes to have his injury corrected this week, according to O’Connell. “T.J. Hockenson had an MCL and ACL injury. He will also go on IR. I adored both of them men. Two of our most important players. Leaders on our team. Kind of set the bar for what we want as Minnesota Vikings in every element of who they are as guys, teammates, and on the field. Two men who will be difficult to overcome their loss, but we’re going to have to have guys step up, and hopefully keep those guys connected and around our team, because they are, like I said, leaders, and very, very important to our locker room.”
Given the late-season injury, Hockenson may not be fit for the start of the 2024 season.
The 26-year-old left Sunday’s loss to the Detroit Lions early in the third quarter after making a catch over the middle.
Hockenson ends 2023 with 95 catches for 960 yards and five touchdowns, which leads the team. He now ranks second among tight ends in catches and third in yards after 15 games. The Vikings signed Hockenson to a four-year, $66 million contract extension this offseason.
The loss is terrible for Minnesota, which fell to 7-8 on the season, sitting at the No. 8 slot in the NFC. Not only must the Vikings regain their playoff footing without their star TE, but the setback may affect their strategy for 2024.
O’Connell also stated that rookie receiver Jordan Addison, who left Sunday with an ankle injury, is considered day to day.
