The Tight End saga just took an even more intriguing turn! Travis Kelce has remained in the center of it all since Rob Gronkowski’s retirement, with a handful of formidable opponents in view. However, a seismic move has unseated the star TE of the reigning champs, and it’s none other than an earth-shattering deal originating from the Vikings camp, sending Kelce’s existing contract into disarray.
In a groundbreaking move, the Vikings have inked a four-year extension with T.J. Hockenson, a player they acquired last season through a midseason trade. This monumental deal has shattered records, becoming the most lucrative in NFL history. The shockwaves it’s generating within the NFL community have left fans utterly stunned.
Hockenson claims Travis Kelce’s throne!
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Despite a mid-season trade last year, the 26-year-old TE delivered an exceptional Pro Bowl performance. Unfortunately, he was sidelined during much of the team’s contact drills due to an ear infection affecting his balance. Nevertheless, with the announcement of this staggering $66 million deal, it’s evident the TE is back in action.
The #Vikings signed TJ Hockenson to a massive 4-year contract worth $68.5 million, which "resets the Tight End market", per @AdamSchefter
He gets $42.5 million guaranteed, the highest for a tight end in NFL history.https://t.co/wmsye36jr4https://t.co/yJ13PYAJVT pic.twitter.com/zSpegsVnWu
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) August 31, 2023
Hockenson has reportedly put pen to paper on an astounding $66 million contract, with an additional $2.5 million up for grabs through incentives. This groundbreaking deal promises him an annual payout of $17.125 million, with an unprecedented $42.5 million guaranteed, both of which set new records in NFL history. In contrast, the reigning champion Travis currently earns $14.3 million annually, a notable shortfall.
This update has sparked a mixture of reactions among fans. While some find themselves bewildered, others firmly stand by the TE’s side.
Is Hockenson overpaid?
The prevailing sentiment among fans is one of bewilderment, and it’s not without reason. At just 26 years old, the TE now commands a higher salary than even Kelce, Darren Waller, and George Kittle. All of this, despite the fact that he’s been associated with the Vikings for a relatively short period. His recent bout of illness raised serious doubts about his return, adding to the speculation surrounding him.
One of the fans was clearly in disbelief, as he wrote, “Holy Overpay”
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Another fan chimed in, with a similar statement, writing, “lil bit of an overpay but they had to do it”
While most of the fans were quick to throw shade at the deal, some stood firm with the TE, with one of them penning a note, “He’s a baller. Well deserved.”
Lastly, another fan showed his appreciation, commenting, “Great TE’s get paid. He’s basically a WR2 so I think this is fair.”
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With Hockenson securing this astonishing deal, the TE landscape is poised for a substantial shift in the days to come. This move might even trigger a renegotiation of Travis Kelce’s contract, indicating the far-reaching impact of Hockenson’s groundbreaking agreement.
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