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Update:
The contract numbers for Vikings tight end .J. Hockenson are now out.
Vikings signed Hockenson to a massive 4-year contract worth $68.5 million. That resets the tight end market, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Hockenson gets $42.5 million guaranteed, the highest for a tight end in NFL history.
Original Story:
The Minnesota Vikings and star tight end T.J. Hockenson have come to terms on a substantial contract extension, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media.
Hockenson, who was acquired by the Vikings in a trade with the Lions last season, has now solidified his future with Minnesota by securing a long-term deal that places him among the highest-paid tight ends in the league.
The fifth-year tight end had been diligently working throughout the offseason to secure an extension from the Vikings, with the aspiration of setting a new benchmark for tight end contracts.
While specific financial details of the agreement have yet to be disclosed, it’s confirmed that Hockenson has now joined the ranks of the NFL’s elite tight ends in terms of compensation.
The #Vikings and TJ Hockenson have agreed to terms on a big contract extension, as the former #Lions star gets paid with his new team, per me and @TomPelissero. Minnesota traded for Hockenson last season, now lock him in long-term as one of the highest paid TEs. pic.twitter.com/KHVy5Gtd1U
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 31, 2023
After Hockenson’s became Viking began midway through the 2022 season, he almost immediately emerged as one of the most heavily targeted tight ends in the league.
During the 2022 season, Hockenson had a standout season, achieving career-high statistics with 86 receptions and 914 yards.
As the 2023 season approaches, he is poised to assume a pivotal role as the No. 2 target in Minnesota’s offensive lineup, working in tandem with star wide receiver Justin Jefferson.