Vikings make T.J. Hockenson one of NFL's highest-paid tight end
The Vikings made a move to lock up a key offensive piece before the 2023 season officially begins. Per reports from Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport, the Vikings are in agreement on an extension with TE TJ Hockenson that will make him "one of the NFL's highest-paid tight ends." The contract details have not been […]
The Vikings made a move to lock up a key offensive piece before the 2023 season officially begins.
Per reports from Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport, the Vikings are in agreement on an extension with TE TJ Hockenson that will make him "one of the NFL's highest-paid tight ends."
The contract details have not been announced as of this writing.
Hockenson was set to enter free agency after the 2023 season but will now presumably be locked up for several additional seasons.
The former Iowa Hawkeye came over to Minnesota from the division-rival Lions at the 2022 NFL trade deadline. Upon arriving in Minnesota, Hockenson immediately became one of Kirk Cousins' favorite targets. The TE racked up 60 catches for 519 yards and three TDs in 10 games with the Vikes.
Just one week ago, ESPN's Dianna Russini reported that the Vikings and Hockenson were "far apart" in extension talks. Per Russini, Hockenson wanted to "reset the market" with a "historic" extension. It seems like the two sides made progress quickly and Hockenson got his wish to be among the highest-paid players at the position.
George Kittle, Mark Andrews, and Dallas Goedert each received $35M+ in total guarantees. Darren Waller leads the way in annual salary at the position, making $17M per year. It remains to be seen what Hockenson will receive, but it's probably safe to assume it will be in this ballpark.
Hockenson has two Pro Bowl selections in his career and has had at least 60 receptions in each season since 2020.
In addition to Hockenson, the team also inked a three-year deal with Josh Oliver this offseason, solidifying the TE position in Minnesota.
UPDATE: Well, Hockenson wanted to reset the market, and it appears he did exactly that.
Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, Hockenson's deal is for $68.5M over four years. Hockenson is getting $17.125M annually and $42.5M guaranteed. This deal represents the largest annual salary and largest guarantees for a TE in NFL history.
Darren Waller previously had the largest annual salary for a TE and George Kittle had the highest total guarantee amount.
Minnesota Vikings: 2023 Practice Squad tracker
Keep track of the latest Vikings’ practice squad moves here.
Featured image via © Matt Krohn | 2023 Jan 15
