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Pro Football Focus’ Thomas Valentine named tight end T.J. Hockenson a cut candidate for the Minnesota Vikings, who are set to already release running back Aaron Jones.
The Minnesota Vikings will save more than $18 million with the releases of running back Aaron Jones and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Sunday the Vikings told both players the team will release them if they can’t find a trade partner.
But the Vikings still have more work to do to move into a better place with the 2026 salary cap.
On Monday, Pro Football Focus’ Thomas Valentine named tight end T.J. Hockenson a cut candidate.
“Once a tight end at the top of his game, T.J. Hockenson hasn’t been the same player since suffering a torn ACL and MCL in 2023. Hockenson played the entire 2025 season, compiling a 61.2 PFF grade — his lowest since his rookie year — while catching 51 passes for 438 yards and three touchdowns. The veteran could be on the move this offseason,” wrote Valentine.
“The Vikings are well over the NFL’s salary cap and have some decisions to make, and cutting Hockenson could be one of them. They’ll save $8.9 million while taking on $12.4 million in dead money if they do.”
Hockenson suffered his torn MCL and ACL ligaments toward the end of 2023. Finally healthy during 2025, the tight end played in 15 contests last season.
But he had his lowest yardage output since his rookie campaign in 2019. Hockenson posted 51 catches for 438 receiving yards with three touchdowns.
Dave Holcomb is a sports reporter covering the NFL and MLB for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions. Originally from Pittsburgh, Holcomb has covered college and professional sports for outlets including FanSided, Rotowire and Yardbarker. More about Dave Holcomb
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