With his 84th reception of the season, Minnesota Vikings TE T.J. Hockenson officially breaks the record for most receptions by a tight end in a single season. The record was formerly held by long-time tight end Kyle Rudolph in 2016.
.@TheeHOCK8 hauled in his 84th reception this season, passing Kyle Rudolph's 2016 mark for the most receptions by a TE in a single season in franchise history.
1. 84 T.J. Hockenson (2023)
2. 83 Kyle Rudolph (2016)#MINvsLV pic.twitter.com/YGQc5JYovy— Vikings Communications (@VikingsPR) December 10, 2023
Before this season started, the plan was for T.J. Hockenson to be the beneficiary of favorable looks due to the attention that Justin Jefferson attracted. With Jefferson out for seven weeks, someone had to step up and be the primary pass-catcher in the offense. Hockenson was that person.
Whether it was Kirk Cousins, Josh Dobbs, Jaren Hall or Nick Mullens, Hockenson was always available for an easy pitch-and-catch opportunity.
His combination of elite size mixed with surprising quickness and agility makes him a nightmare to cover in space and contested catch situations.
This off-season, Minnesota made Hockenson the highest-paid tight end in the league. It is safe to say that he has lived up to his contract.
