T.J. Hockenson has signed a four-year contract extension with the Minnesota Vikings, the team announced Thursday. The deal is worth up to $68.5 million and includes $42.5 million guaranteed, making it the richest contract ever for a tight end.
Hockenson, 25, was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He was traded to the Vikings in November 2021. In 17 games with the Vikings last season, Hockenson caught 60 passes for 519 yards and three touchdowns.
“I’m excited to be here in Minnesota, and I’m excited to be a Viking for the long term,” Hockenson said. “I’m excited to get to work and help this team win games.”
The deal is a significant coup for the Vikings looking to lock up Hockenson long-term. He is one of the most talented tight ends in the NFL, and his presence in the offense will significantly boost quarterback Kirk Cousins.
“T.J. is a special player, and we’re excited to have him in our long-term plans,” Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said. “He’s a great player, a great teammate, and a great person. We’re thrilled to have him here.”
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The deal is also a sign of the Vikings’ commitment to winning. They have made several moves this offseason to improve their roster, and the signing of Hockenson is another significant step in that direction.
With Hockenson locked up, the Vikings’ focus will turn to their other critical contract situation: wide receiver Justin Jefferson. Jefferson is entering the final year of his rookie deal and is expected to command a big payday.
The Vikings will likely have to make him the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL to keep him in Minnesota.
But for now, the Vikings can celebrate the signing of Hockenson, a significant piece of their Super Bowl puzzle.
Highlights:
- T.J. Hockenson has signed a four-year contract extension with the Minnesota Vikings.
- The deal is worth up to $68.5 million and includes $42.5 million guaranteed.
- Hockenson is one of the most talented tight ends in the NFL.
- The agreement was a significant coup for the Vikings.
- The Vikings are also expected to make a big contract offer to wide receiver Justin Jefferson.
