Vikings’ T.J. Hockenson Becomes NFL’s Highest Paid Tight End

An ear infection and lower back pains are what kept Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson out of most of the club’s preseason activities. While there is no doubt he did suffer those at least to some degree, his new four-year, $66 million contract– up to $68.5 million – might have been just what the doctor ordered.

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Vikings’ T.J. Hockenson Becomes Highest Paid TE

From what details have been divulged, the contract is officially worth $66 million, with $42 million of that guaranteed. Based on some incentives, its value can increase to $68.5 million. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that the average annual value is $17.125 million.

Darren Waller, newly a New York Giant, previously held the record as the best-paid tight end in the NFL. He’s earning $17 million per season.

T.J. Hockenson was acquired in 2022 mid-season by the Minnesota Vikings from the Detroit Lions. In four seasons, the 26-year-old has tallied 246 receptions for a total of 2,587 yards. He’s also caught 18 touchdowns.

His performances in Minnesota through 10 games were, incidentally, slightly below his previous averages. He caught for 8.6 yards per pass, his lowest figure ever. On the flip side, he was excellent in the team’s Wild Card loss to the New York Giants, hauling in 10 passes for 129 yards.

Nevertheless, having Hockenson long-term helps out QB Kirk Cousins and fellow receiver Justin Jefferson and running back Alexander Mattison.