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T.J. Hockenson out for the season with torn ACL, MCL

One of the Iowa Hawkeyes‘ favorite sons sadly won’t get to finish the 2023 NFL season.

Minnesota Vikings star tight end T.J. Hockenson is officially out for the remainder of the season with torn ACL and MCL ligaments in his right knee. Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed that news Tuesday.

“Knowing T.J., the type of player he is, I’m absolutely looking forward to when we can get him back rolling and ready to have a great 2024 season,” O’Connell said.

It’s a shame for Hockenson and perhaps a devastating blow to the Vikings’ playoff chances. Injured on the second play of the third quarter during Minnesota’s 30-24 loss against the Detroit Lions, Hockenson was in the midst of a career year in his first full season with the Vikings.

Hockenson ends his 2023 season with career bests in receptions (95) and receiving yards (960). The 6-foot-5, 248 pound tight end reeled in five touchdown grabs this season with the Vikes.

Hockenson’s 960 receiving yards currently ranks 24th in the NFL and third among all tight ends.

Hockenson’s 155 receptions since the Vikings acquired him at the 2022 trade deadline leads all NFL tight ends. The fifth-year pro signed a four-year contract extension in August that will pay him at least $66 million and up to $68.5 million.

The Minnesota Vikings close their 2023 regular season with games against the Green Bay Packers and then one final road trip to the Detroit Lions.

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