Hockenson scored the only touchdown for the Vikings as they put up a performance they’d rather soon forget against the Rams. Under contract for the next three season, Hockenson is likely to be a large part of the future plans for a franchise likely headed towards significant offensive changes considering quarterback Sam Darnold and running backs Aaron Jones and Cam Akers are on the final year of their contracts. Hockenson appeared in 11 games for the Vikings, including the playoffs, in 2024 after starting the season on injured reserve as he recovered from a torn ACL suffered in the 2023 season. His season ends with 41 receptions for 455 yards.

To be fair to Hockenson, the entire Minnesota offense struggled against one of the best defensive game plans we have seen from Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. The return of linebacker Alex Anzalone played a massive part in locking down Hockenson, who routinely found himself in coverage of the veteran tight end. The loss sends the Vikings to a road matchup with the Rams, one of only two teams to beat the Vikings this season, in the Wildcard Round.

It was yet another down day for Hockenson, who has eclipsed 50 receiving yards in just three of his eight games in 2024. Hockenson ran a route on 30 of the team’s 42 drop backs against Seattle. He still does not have a touchdown on 45 receptions this season. He’ll be a TE2 option in Week 16 against the Packers.