Two Injured Minnesota Vikings May Start Practicing Next Week

The Minnesota Vikings have been rolling through the first three weeks of the season, and they have done so without some key players. They get Jordan Addison and Dallas Turner back this week. They could add offensive talent in the form of T.J. Hockenson and Dalton Risner soon as well.

A boost for the Minnesota Vikings offense coming

T.J. Hockenson has been out since the end of last year after Kerby Joseph took out his acl on a low hit. He voiced his displeasure during the rehab process, but is now nearing a return. He could be joined by Dalton Risner as well. The guard re-signed this offseason and is expected to compete for time with Ed Ingram.

Three Vikings players — tight end T.J. Hockenson, guard Dalton Risner and edge rusher Gabriel Murphy — are eligible to return to practice next week. At least two of them, Hockenson (knee) and Risner (back), are under consideration to practice as soon as possible, O’Connell said.

Andrew Krammer – Star Tribune

Both Hockenson and Risner are eligible to return to practice this week. Each could come off IR during Week 5 in London. It doesn’t make a ton of sense for them to make that their 2024 debut, but each may target Week 7 after the bye.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Activate Same Two Practice Squad Players for Week 4

Ingram has held down the starting spot, and Josh Oliver has been the lead tight end. Hockenson and Risner getting back into the lineup would give Kevin O’Connell some new options.

Sam Darnold gets a boost when Minnesota Vikings get healthy

The Minnesota Vikings have watched Sam Darnold play like an MVP to start the season. He has spread the ball to multiple offensive weapons, and it only benefits him to add in more. Jordan Addison gives the Vikings quarterback another receiver to look at, and he’s not far off from adding more help.

TJ Hockenson picking up 25 yards after the catch and taking half of Atlanta's defense with him: pic.twitter.com/eyYlLljcNG

— Nick Olson (@NickOlsonNFL) November 6, 2023

Hockenson has been among the best tight ends in the league since joining Minnesota. He is a dynamic player that can do it all in O’Connell’s offense. Darnold having both Hockenson and Oliver available on the line bolsters that side of the football.

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The Vikings offensive line has done a good job keeping Darnold upright as well. Dalton Risner can rotate in to continue that pursuit. It’s possible that the guard doesn’t crack the starting lineup, but no matter what his presence will be felt.