The Minnesota Vikings have signed Pro Bowl tight end T.J. Hockenson to a four-year extension. The deal is reportedly worth up to $68.5 million, making Hockenson the highest-paid TE in the league.
Hockenson’s $17.125 million annual salary ranks ahead of New York Giants’ Darren Waller, who averages $17 million per year. He also received $42.5 million in guaranteed money, topping the $40 million guaranteed that the San Francisco 49ers gave George Kittle in 2020.
The Vikings confirmed Hockenson’s extension on social media but didn’t release the financial terms of the agreement.
Hockenson joined the Vikings in a trade from the Detroit Lions ahead of the NFL trade deadline last season. He quickly emerged as one of quarterback Kirk Cousins’ preferred targets, raking up 60 catches for 519 yards and three touchdowns. He finished the 2022 campaign with a total of 86 receptions, 916 receiving yards, and six TDs en route to his second career Pro Bowl nod.
“It’s just been an incredible year to be here, be part of the Minnesota Vikings, be a part of this organization, and really be a part of this city,” Hockenson told reporters after the news became official. “… I’ve expressed that to you guys and the fans since day one that this is the place I want to be long-term. And to have that done and to be able to move forward with that and really have dreams come into reality is incredible.”
