Vikings face concern after $66M deal labeled as “not have a lot left”
Nov 30, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) runs on the field after the first half against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
Nov 30, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) runs on the field after the first half against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
The Minnesota Vikings' tight end room features a Pro Bowl veteran leading the other developing players, leaving no room for doubt. However, doubts are brewing after the Vikings signed a four-year contract extension worth $66 million in 2023 for tight end T.J. Hockenson.
According to Bleacher Report's Brad Gagnon, Hockenson's deal was ranked ninth in the analyst's list of 'Ranking 10 Worst Contracts in NFL Ahead of 2026 Season.'
"The nearly 29-year-old has scored just three touchdowns since the start of 2024 and has fallen short of 500 yards in each of the last two seasons. His body might not have a lot left," wrote Gagnon.
As reported by the analyst, he is the third-highest-paid tight end in the sport, yet his production is not up to the mark.
Nov 30, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) makes a catch during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
Nov 30, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) makes a catch during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
Hockenson's reduced production since the last two seasons is a matter of concern. They traded for Hockenson from the Detroit Lions in 2022. While in the first two seasons, he came up with eight touchdowns combined and more than 1400 yards, his production dropped in 2024, recording zero touchdowns.
He managed to record three touchdowns last season, but was limited to below 500 yards for both 2024 and 2025. It questions his long-term future, as Minnesota reworked his deal in March.
Even after the restructuring, the Vikings top the list of tight ends with the largest salary cap. It leaves them with less flexibility if the outcome is not positive.
When the Vikings signed Hockenson in 2022, he was expected to become a cornerstone player alongside Justin Jefferson. But in 2024, he was injured with a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee, which affected his consistency.
Hockenson has the opportunity to prove himself this year and regain his role as the Vikings' head for the 2026 season.
The 2026 season is a 'make or break' year for T. J. Hockenson
The Vikings restructured Hockenson's contract in March, allowing him a $5 million pay cut and eliminating the final year of the deal, making him a free agent after the 2026 season.
"The 28-year-old is playing on a restructured four-year deal with Minnesota, which indicates the team is already looking for ways to save money as it looks to the future," wrote Austen Bundy of FanSided.
With Hockenson turning 29 this season, there are growing questions about how much top-level production he has left. There have been no changes observed in Hockenson's performance since he got injured with an ACL back in Week 16 in 2023.
He recorded 92 passes for 893 yards and three touchdowns in 25 games following his injury.
The Vikings passed on drafting a tight end in 2026, even with uncertainty surrounding backup Josh Oliver’s ability to step in if Hockenson were sidelined.
Do you think T.J. Hockenson will be able to prove himself in 2026? Let us know in the comments.
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Written by
Hetal Moleshri
Edited by
Soheli Tarafdar