Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson is taking his time recovering from a torn ACL and MCL.
Despite his absence, the Vikings have signed veteran Robert Tonyan, who has played for the Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers.
When Tonyan’s signing was announced, Hockenson enthusiastically welcomed him with a message on X: “LFG, Bobby!!!” and the hashtag #skol.
Tonyan, 30, had a challenging season with the Bears, recording just 11 receptions for 112 yards and no touchdowns—the first season in his career without a touchdown. This performance was lower than those of current Vikings tight ends Johnny Mundt and Josh Oliver.
However, over the prior three seasons, Tonyan caught 123 passes for 1,260 yards and 15 touchdowns. He joins a scheme known to be favorable for tight ends. The details of Tonyan’s contract with the Vikings have not been disclosed, but it is expected to be modest given his recent performance and the timing of his signing.
LFG, Bobby!!! 🎉🔥 #skol https://t.co/DFrxSClfJZ
— TJ Hockenson (@TheeHOCK8) May 16, 2024
Regarding his recovery, Hockenson, who had career highs of 95 receptions, 960 yards, and five touchdowns in 2023, stated that he is “ahead of schedule” but did not commit to a specific return date. He emphasized a day-by-day approach to his rehabilitation. Speculation suggests he could miss the first six weeks of the 2024 season, but Hockenson remains hopeful about an earlier return without setting a firm timeline.
In addition to football, Hockenson and other Vikings players, including Justin Jefferson, have been vocal supporters of the Minnesota Timberwolves. After the Timberwolves’ victory over the Denver Nuggets to advance to the Western Conference Finals, Hockenson and his teammates expressed their excitement and support on social media.
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