TNF is here. The Vikings will face the Rams in the week 8 game at SoFi Stadium. And the team has shared its final injury report. Only LB Blake Cashman has been ruled out, while TE TJ Hockenson, guard Dalton Risner, and CB Akayleb Evans are questionable for the game. Let’s check out what’s going on with the TE who has been out of action since last season.

There is a high chance that the TE might not play against the Rams. Though he has been cleared of IR, Hockenson didn’t practice in any session leading up to the game. However, he might be on the field during the week 9 game against the Colts. That’s a very real possibility.

Two days back, the coach Kevin O’Connell was asked if he would play TJ Hockenson against the Rams and his reply was, “As we put together game plans, we want to have a good feel for that. But, very much a possibility.” Things look positive for the Vikes with the tight end taken out of the IR. For now, the team has to focus on the TNF matchup.

Before going into the bye week, they were undefeated with a 5-0 record. Last week was a shocker. They tasted defeat for the first time against the Lions. It was a closely contested game. They were ahead, but the field goal by Jake Bates, with 2:17 minutes remaining in the 4th quarter, changed the outcome.

The Skols are still happy with his recovery. The TE is also preparing for touchdowns.

TJ Hockenson is ready for the return

The tight end has not played for the Vikings this season till now. And he has been missing the gridiron. After recovering from the injury, he wowed his fans with an Instagram post with his photos of shaking hands with young Skols during practice. Fans were overjoyed and waiting to see him in action.

TJ Hockenson is also enjoying the time off with his wife. On the occasion of his photographer wife Micala Hockenson’s 25th birthday, the couple posted photos from their Hawaii trip. They enjoyed horse rides together and even went on the Kalalau trail. That’s a great sign. He needs to be prepared for the big league mentally as well. And what other retreat than some family time?

With their star-tight end knocking on the doors of the locker room, the Vikes feel great. The TNF game against the Rams is a splendid chance to get back on the winning path. They have all the necessary tools required for a win.