Less than four hours before the NFL trade deadline Tuesday, the Vikings made a significant deal to upgrade their offense, acquiring tight end T.J. Hockenson in a deal with the Lions.
Hockenson, a 2020 Pro Bowler who's caught 26 passes for 395 yards and three touchdowns this season, should help the Vikings upgrade a position of need in their offense, with Irv Smith heading to injured reserve because of a high ankle sprain.
Adding another pass-catcher seemed like a priority for the Vikings even before Smith was hurt on Sunday, and Hockenson could help them solidify the tight end position in both 2022 and 2023.