MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 12: T.J. Hockenson #87
of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New
Orleans Saints during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 12,
2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)
Saivion Mixson
With his 84th reception of the season, Minnesota Vikings TE T.J. Hockenson officially breaks
the record for most receptions by a tight end in a single season. The record
was formerly held by long-time tight end Kyle Rudolph in 2016.
https://twitter.com/VikingsPR/status/1733998570804854975?s=20
Before this season started, the plan was for T.J.
Hockenson to be the beneficiary of favorable looks due to the attention that
Justin Jefferson attracted. With Jefferson out
for seven weeks, someone had to step up and be the primary pass-catcher in the
offense. Hockenson was that person.
Whether it was Kirk
Cousins, Josh Dobbs, Jaren Hall or Nick Mullens, Hockenson was always available
for an easy pitch-and-catch opportunity.
His combination of elite size mixed with
surprising quickness and agility makes him a nightmare to cover in space and
contested catch situations.
This off-season, Minnesota made
Hockenson the highest-paid tight end in the league. It is safe to say that he
has lived up to his contract.