New update reveals when T.J. Hockenson could return for Vikings in 2024

The Minnesota Vikings could welcome T.J. Hockenson back to the field soon as the team will open the 21-day practice window to activate him off the physically unable-to-perform (PUP) list on Friday afternoon according to head coach Kevin O’Connell.

Speaking to reporters at his weekly press conference on Wednesday, O’Connell said the plan is for the Vikings to open the practice window on Friday and have him travel to London with the team for Sunday’s game against the New York Jets. 

While Hockenson will not play in Sunday’s game, he will partake in his first practice in London, and the Vikings will have 21 days to activate him or keep him on the PUP list for the remainder of the season.

Minnesota Vikings TE T.J. Hockenson could return in Week 7 against the Detroit Lions

Hockenson has been out of action since taking a hit from Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph last Christmas Eve. The hit tore Hockenson’s ACL and MCL, and surgery was delayed until the swelling in Hockenson’s knee subsided in late January.

Both Hockenson and O’Connell have remained optimistic about his recovery from the injury so far but neither were committed on a fast return. After being placed on the PUP list during training camp, Hockenson missed the first four games of the season but Wednesday’s news opens the door for his return.

While there is a chance for Hockenson to return against the Lions for a key divisional matchup on October 20, ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently reported that the team is targeting the October 24 game against the Los Angeles Rams or the November 3 game against the Indianapolis Colts as possible return dates for the 27-year old.

With Hockenson signing a four-year, $66 million contract extension before the start of last season, both sides have an incentive to slow play his rehab process – especially with the Vikings winning their first four games to open the 2024 season.

That makes Hockenson a big boost for a team that has vaulted itself into contender status in the NFC. With Justin Jefferson’s four receiving touchdowns and Jordan Addison’s return against the Packers last week, Hockenson would give Sam Darnold an additional weapon as the Vikings make sure their hot start continues.

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