Is T.J. Hockenson staging a hold-in for a new contract?

With the hopes of signing a contract extension before the start of the regular season, is Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson currently staging a hold-in?

During this past Thursday's training camp practice, multiple reports revealed that Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson took part in individual drills, but he remained on the sideline for the team drills portion of the session.

Then came Saturday's practice, in which Hockenson didn't participate at all. Minnesota's top tight end did watch some of the session from the sideline, but then he was seen returning inside the team facilities, possibly with an athletic trainer accompanying him, according to SKOR North's Judd Zulgad.

It seems likely that Hockenson is dealing with some sort of injury, and it could be something totally minor. But with his current contract set to expire in 2024, it wouldn't be surprising if he is taking some extra precautions to avoid sustaining an injury that could put his season in jeopardy.

Is T.J. Hockenson currently staging a hold-in to get a new contract from the Minnesota Vikings?

In addition to taking extra precautions with his health, Hockenson could also be staging a bit of a hold-in. Despite participating in most of Minnesota's training camp this summer, it's possible that the 26-year-old could have been advised by his representation to shut it down until he receives a contract extension.

In the final year of his rookie deal, Hockenson is currently scheduled to make just under $9.4 million for the upcoming season. Looking around the NFL, the five highest-paid tight ends (based on average annual salary) are currently making at least $14 million per year. So it's fair to assume that Hockenson would like an extension from the Vikings that pays him more than $14 million per season.

The Pro Bowl tight end just watched Danielle Hunter stage a hold-in during the beginning of training camp, and it resulted in the pass rusher earning a lucrative new deal from Minnesota. Perhaps Hockenson's agents have told him to do something similar to see if it will help him land an extension from the Vikings.

Whether contract negotiations are behind the tight end's recent lack of participation in practice or not, Minnesota should still be working on signing him to an extension sooner than later.

Hockenson quickly emerged as a vital part of the Vikings' offense in 2022, and if they want to continue to be successful during the upcoming season, then they need him on the field.