Tight end TJ Hockenson was ecstatic on Thursday when the Minnesota Vikings signed him to a four-year agreement worth $68.5 million a year before he was set to hit free agency.
Hockenson's contract is worth an average of $17.125 million per year, just $1 million more than New York Giants tight end Darren Waller.
Hockenson is a relatively fresh member to the Vikings' offense, having been acquired in a mid-season trade with the division rival Detroit Lions last season.
In 10 games with Minnesota, the former Iowa Hawkeye tight end fit in easily, catching 60 catches for 519 yards and three scores.
Following a solid debut in Minnesota, the Vikings wasted no time in re-signing Hockenson for the long haul.
The Vikings are clearly making a significant investment with this decision, and only time will tell how it pans out.
But for now, let's assess how the Vikings fared with this deal.Hockenson plays a significant role in the offense despite having only been in Minnesota for half a season.
After his arrival, he quickly became one of quarterback Kirk Cousins' favorite targets, finishing the season with the second-most receptions