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Vikings HC Kevin O'Connell provides update on TJ Hockenson's injury status

The Minnesota Vikings have a 3-0 record with a +51 point differential this season despite being far from their best offensively. They lost Jordan Addison in the third quarter against the New York Giants in Week 1 and have been without TJ Hockenson since Christmas Eve last season, who suffered a torn ACL.

Given the Vikings' success, the perception is that the Vikings will get even better as both players will soon return from injuries. When these players will return is still uncertain.

When will TJ Hockenson return from injury?

During his media availability on Wednesday, head coach Kevin O'Connell was asked about Hockenson's potential return. While referring reporters to the medical staff, O'Connell provided some insight into how Hockenson has been involved during his rehab.

“Yeah, I'm going to continue to rely on the medical staff on that and hope that TJ gets back on his feet as quickly as possible. And he's done everything we've asked him to do. He's eager to get out there. He's asking great questions and having conversations. He's helping this tight end group, I've really felt him taking on a leadership role. Throughout his rehab, he's been totally present, almost to the point that sometimes, you know, aside from not having a really good player on Sundays, he's so engaged, you know, in the meeting room with his teammates.”

The Vikings have the option to activate Hockenson's 21-day training window after Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers, and he could return as early as next week against the New York Jets in London.

The most likely outcome for Hockenson would be a return after the Week Six off. The Vikings play the Detroit Lions in Week Seven and have a Thursday night game against the Rams in Week Eight. With the Vikings playing so well without Hockenson, they may be willing to wait until that Thursday night game so he doesn't have to deal with a short week.

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