5 players the Vikings could extend before the 2023 season

T.J. Hockenson, tight end

When general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah executed a trade with the Detroit Lions to obtain tight end T.J. Hockenson, the hope was that he could become a legitimate weapon in the passing game to help move the chains when defenses focused on Jefferson.

The Minnesota Vikings should be very happy with the results so far. Hockenson has evolved into one of quarterback Kirk Cousins’ favorite targets and will likely be the team’s second option as a receiver.

Hockenson is due approximately $9.4 million in 2023 against the salary cap. An extension could spread some of that space over a few seasons or reward him with similar salaries and lock him down for multiple years.

Considering that he should be considered one of the top four tight ends in the NFL, locking down Hockenson would be a smart decision, even if it has no impact on his cap hit for 2023. He is a valuable asset that makes the team better when he is on the field.