Vikings Tight End T.J. Hockenson Seeks Redemption in Fantasy Football Season

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — After a torn ACL cut short his season last year, T.J. Hockenson is hoping to bounce back as the Minnesota Vikings’ tight end. With J.J. McCarthy sidelined due to injury, Carson Wentz is now at the helm for the Vikings, presenting new opportunities for Hockenson ahead of week five.

In the first two games of the season, Hockenson struggled, recording only four catches for 27 yards. This left him outside the top-40 fantasy tight ends. However, a change in quarterbacks has the potential to change that dynamic. Historically, Wentz has shown a high target percentage for tight ends, averaging 9.6 targets per game since 2018.

Wentz’s first start in week three against the Cincinnati Bengals saw Hockenson record five catches for 49 yards and a touchdown in a 48-10 victory. His involvement continued to grow in week four, with a season-high snap share of 93.4% and four catches on five targets against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Despite the improvement, issues with the offensive line, especially with Brian O’Neill out, may affect Hockenson’s performance. Yet, if the line gets healthy, it could greatly benefit Hockenson’s production.

Looking ahead, the Vikings face a tough matchup against the Cleveland Browns in week five. The Browns rank among the top ten teams limiting fantasy points to tight ends. Minnesota’s bye in week six will provide some time to regroup, but Hockenson is expected to remain a key player in the offense.

PFF’s Nathan Jahnke has pointed out that, despite current performance expectations, Hockenson could improve significantly as the season progresses, particularly from week nine onward when the Vikings face softer matchups.

As fantasy managers look for tight end options, many will start Hockenson due to bye weeks and thin choices. The upcoming stretch has games against teams that have struggled to defend the position, raising hopes for stronger performances.