The Minnesota Vikings waived Robert Tonyan on Tuesday, and shortly thereafter re-signed him to the practice squad in a move that seems to signal that T.J. Hockenson’s return is imminent.
Hockenson, a two-time Pro Bowler, hasn’t appeared since Week 16 against the Lions last season when he suffered a torn ACL.
A Hockenson return would be a huge boost for an offense that has not gotten much production from tight ends this season. Vikings tight ends have combined for 18 receptions (29th in the NFL) and just 125 receiving yards (last in the NFL).
In 25 games with the Vikings, Hockenson has 155 receptions, 1,479 receiving yards and eight receiving touchdowns.