In his absence, the Vikings will be without their two-time Pro Bowl tight end for the initial month. They have also lost quarterback Kirk Cousins to free agency and rookie JJ McCarthy, who was expected to replace him, to a season-ending injury during training camp. Consequently, Sam Darnold will step in as the starter by default.

Minnesota is leaving TE T.J. Hockenson on the Physically Unable to Perform List, which means he is ineligible to be active during the first four games of the season, per sources. Hockenson still is recovering from last season’s torn ACL but is expected to return this season. pic.twitter.com/yic1seDyka

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 27, 2024

Additionally, starting wide receiver Jordan Addison is struggling with an ankle injury that could affect his availability for the season opener. Given these challenges, expect Justin Jefferson, who already averages 144 targets per season, to take on an even larger role.

Hockenson spent the first three and a half seasons of his career with the Detroit Lions before being traded to the Vikings during the 2022 season. In 2023, he recorded 95 receptions for 960 yards and five touchdowns. In his sole postseason game, he caught 10 passes for 129 yards in the Vikings’ wild card loss to the New York Giants.