T.J. Hockenson is a top tight end pick for fantasy football in 2023. He’s a versatile player with impressive athleticism, strength, and reliable hands. He can contribute to both the passing and running game for the Minnesota Vikings, making him a valuable asset for any fantasy team. But Hockenson is dealing with an injury. What is the status of those injuries with the start of the season right around the corner?
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What Happened to T.J. Hockenson?
Hockenson missed a lot of action during the summer due to an ear infection and a lower back injury. However, at the time of this writing, Hockenson should start the regular season.
Blessed! Can’t wait for the future!! #skol pic.twitter.com/jT0tVXSfLR
— TJ Hockenson (@TheeHOCK8) August 31, 2023
Another good sign is that Hockenson signed a contract extension on Thursday, making him one of the league’s highest-paid tight ends. There is a possibility that Hockenson’s contract situation may have added to his “injury status” and he’s back to full health going into Week 1.
In addition, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell said he feels “very good” about Hockenson’s availability for Week 1.
What Are Minnesota’s Options If Hockenson Misses Time?
Hockenson appears set to return for Week 1 against Tampa Bay, and the Vikings have few options at tight end if Hockenson goes down with injury during the season.
MORE: 2023 Dynasty TE Rankings
Backup TE Josh Oliver contributes more to the team’s running game than as a pass catcher.
What Does This Mean for Hockenson’s Fantasy Ranking?
Last season, Hockenson finished as the overall TE2 thanks to a midseason trade from Detroit to pass-happy Minnesota. He was heavily used right from the beginning, finishing with season-setting career highs in targets (129), receptions (86), yards (914), and tied his career high in TDs (six).
This season, Hockenson could be TE1. With the departure of Adam Thielen and another year in the Minnesota system, there’s zero reason to doubt that Hockenson won’t see an increase in targets from the year before when he set a career high for himself.
Entering his fifth year in the league, Hockenson is being drafted as the TE3 and 42nd overall.
The injury situation during the summer was more contract-related. With his extension signed, Hockenson should be a top option at tight end for fantasy managers for the 2023 season.