The Minnesota Vikings made a significant move by signing tight end T.J. Hockenson with a four-year contract extension worth $68.5 million, with $42.5 million guaranteed.

According to an ESPN report, With this agreement, 26-year-old Hockenson would receive an average yearly salary of $17.125 million, breaking previous NFL tight end salary records. The Giants tight end Darren Waller, who inked a contract in September 2022 and makes an average of $17 million annually, receives less money than this average wage.

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T.J. Hockenson was a key addition to the Vikings’ already potent offense after they acquired him from their divisional foe, the Detroit Lions, last season. He set an NFL record for tight ends in his first four games with the team by catching 26 receptions.

Hockenson, a former University of Iowa football player, had a stellar season, recording career highs of 86 receptions and 914 yards. With six touchdowns, he also equaled his single-season high.

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With this new deal, Hockenson is anticipated to stay with the Vikings for a lengthy period of time, strengthening the group’s potent collection of offensive weapons. The current offensive player of the year, Justin Jefferson, is a superb wide receiver, and Jordan Addison, a rookie on the other side, has a chance to finish the season with 1,000 yards receiving.

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Hockenson in a statement, after the signing, said, “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. It’s truly a good fit for me here, and I’ve known that since day one. 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 a reality is incredible. I’m super excited to first and foremost be here, so that’s what it is.”