55 Facts About T.J. Hockenson

Early Life and High School Achievements

T.J. Hockenson's journey to NFL stardom began in the heartland of America. His early years and high school career laid the foundation for his future success.

1. Thomas James Hockenson was born on July 3, 1997, in Cherokee, Iowa.
2. He later moved to Chariton, Iowa, where he spent his teenage years.
3. Hockenson attended Chariton High School, excelling in both football and basketball.
4. He was a four-year letter winner as a tight end and defensive back.
5. Hockenson set school records for receiving yards in a game, season, and career.
6. He led his team to the state playoffs as a senior.
7. Hockenson was named all-state first team in his senior year.

College Career at the University of Iowa

Hockenson's college career at the University of Iowa showcased his talents and prepared him for the NFL.

8. Rated as a three-star recruit, he was the seventh-highest rated recruit in Iowa in the class of 2016.
9. Hockenson committed to the University of Iowa on June 20, 2015.
10. He redshirted his true freshman year in 2016.
11. Hockenson made his college debut in the 2017 opener against Wyoming.
12. He recorded his first career receptions against Iowa State, with two catches for 41 yards.
13. His breakout game came in Iowa's upset victory over then-No. 3 Ohio State, with five receptions for 71 yards and two touchdowns.
14. Hockenson finished the 2017 season with 24 receptions for 320 yards and three touchdowns.
15. He was listed on the preseason watch list for the John Mackey Award in 2018.
16. Hockenson set a career high with 125 receiving yards in a game against Wisconsin.
17. He recorded four receptions for 107 yards and two touchdowns against Indiana.
18. Hockenson finished the 2018 season with 46 receptions for 717 yards and six touchdowns.
19. He was named first-team All-Big Ten Conference at tight end by media voters.
20. Hockenson won the Big Ten's tight end of the year award, the Kwalick–Clark Award.
21. He received the John Mackey Award in 2018, honoring him as the top tight end in college football.

Transition to the NFL

Hockenson's transition to the NFL was marked by early success and some challenges.

22. On January 14, 2019, Hockenson announced he would be declaring for the 2019 NFL draft.
23. The Detroit Lions selected him in the first round of the 2019 NFL draft.
24. In his rookie season, Hockenson played in 12 games (seven starts), recording 32 receptions for 367 yards and two touchdowns.
25. He set the record for the most receiving yards by a tight end in their debut game with 131 yards.
26. His rookie season was marked by injuries, including concussions and an ankle injury.
27. In the 2020 season, Hockenson started all 16 games.
28. His third season was cut short due to a hand injury, ending his season after 12 games.
29. Before the injury, he was on pace to set new career-highs in every category.
30. Entering the 2021 season, Hockenson was the Lions’ starting tight end.
31. He was placed on injured reserve on December 17, 2021, after undergoing thumb surgery.
32. Despite the injury, he finished the season with 61 catches for 583 yards and four touchdowns through 12 games.

Record-Breaking Performances and Trade to the Vikings

Hockenson continued to make headlines with record-breaking performances and a significant trade.

33. The Lions picked up the fifth-year option on Hockenson’s contract on April 26, 2022.
34. In a Week 4 game against the Seattle Seahawks, Hockenson set the all-time Lions record for receiving yards in a game by a tight end, with 179 yards on eight receptions.
35. Three years into his career, Hockenson has proven he can be prolific at times, but his health has been a concern.
36. Hockenson stands at 6-foot-5, making him a matchup nightmare with his physical tools.
37. Developing chemistry with quarterback Jared Goff is crucial for his continued success.
38. In 11 games with Goff in 2021, Hockenson had 55 receptions for 532 yards and four touchdowns.
39. When Hockenson was absent, the Lions turned to undrafted free agent Brock Wright as the team’s starter.
40. Hockenson’s health will be key going forward, as his on-field production has shown his potential.
41. As a first-round pick, Hockenson could be a huge piece in the organization’s story for the next decade.
42. Hockenson underwent surgery to repair a hand injury following the team’s first win of the season.
43. He shared his feelings about the season ending abruptly and mentioned working with Coach Campbell to gain knowledge and improve.
44. Heading into year four, eyes are on Hockenson to see what he can do if he remains healthy.
45. In 2022, Hockenson was traded to the Minnesota Vikings, where he continued to excel.
46. In his first season with the Vikings, Hockenson achieved career highs with 960 receiving yards and 95 catches, along with five touchdowns.
47. He played a crucial role in the Vikings’ offense, particularly as the team navigated through multiple quarterbacks.
48. As of the 2024 season, Hockenson is still recovering from a torn ACL he suffered during Week 16 of the previous season.
49. The Vikings remain optimistic about his return at some point during the current season.
50. Hockenson can potentially make his comeback in Week 5, when the Vikings face the New York Jets on October 6.
51. The former Iowa player suffered his injury in the third quarter of the December 24 game against the Detroit Lions.
52. Prior to his injury, Hockenson was enjoying his finest season in the NFL.
53. Hockenson delayed his ACL surgery to allow the MCL tear from the same play to recover.
54. He underwent surgery at the end of January, about a month after the injury occurred.
55. Born to Teri and Tod Hockenson, he is an open major at the University of Iowa.

T.J. Hockenson: A Rising NFL Star

T.J. Hockenson's journey from small-town Iowa to the NFL showcases his talent, hard work, and resilience. From setting high school records to winning the John Mackey Award in college, Hockenson has consistently proven his worth. His transition to the NFL with the Detroit Lions and later the Minnesota Vikings highlights his adaptability and skill. Despite facing injuries, he has shown remarkable performance, setting records and becoming a key player for his teams. As he recovers from his ACL injury, fans eagerly await his return to the field, hoping to see more of his exceptional play. Hockenson's story is one of determination and promise, making him a player to watch in the coming seasons. His impact on the game and his teams underscores his potential to become one of the NFL's top tight ends.