T.J. Hockenson’s future in Minnesota is suddenly looking a lot less certain-and if the Vikings decide to part ways with their Pro Bowl tight end, there are a few teams that should be ready to pounce.
Minnesota is staring down a $40 million salary cap deficit this offseason, and tough decisions are on the horizon. One of the more notable names potentially on the chopping block?
Hockenson. The Vikings could clear up to $15 million in cap space by moving on from the 28-year-old, and after a 2025 campaign that didn’t quite live up to expectations, the timing might make sense for a reset.
That opens the door for several tight end-needy teams, and three franchises in particular stand out as logical landing spots: the Denver Broncos, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and San Francisco 49ers.
Let’s start in Denver, where rookie quarterback Bo Nix could benefit greatly from a reliable, proven target over the middle. While Evan Engram has been serviceable, Hockenson would bring a different level of consistency and production.
He’s just two years removed from a 95-catch, 960-yard season-numbers that place him among the league’s elite at the position when healthy and in rhythm. Even in a “down year” in 2025, he still hauled in 51 receptions, showing he can contribute even when the offense isn’t clicking.
In Tampa Bay, Hockenson could be a strong complement to Cade Otton, giving the Bucs a versatile one-two punch at tight end. With Baker Mayfield showing flashes of his best football this past season, adding another dependable weapon could help elevate the offense even further-especially in the red zone and on third downs, where tight ends can make a living.
Then there’s San Francisco, where the 49ers may be without George Kittle for the entirety of 2026 as he recovers from a torn ACL. That’s a massive hole to fill-Kittle isn’t just a star, he’s the emotional heartbeat of that offense.
But if you’re looking for a tight end who can step in and handle a heavy workload, Hockenson fits the bill. He may not bring Kittle’s after-the-catch explosiveness or blocking prowess, but he’s a savvy route-runner with soft hands and the ability to find soft spots in coverage.
For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, plugging that gap with a proven veteran could be a smart play from GM John Lynch.
Of course, there’s still a chance Hockenson stays in Minnesota. But with the cap situation what it is-and with teams like Denver, Tampa Bay, and San Francisco potentially in the market-his name is one to watch as we head into the offseason.
Tight ends who can produce like Hockenson don’t become available often. If he hits the open market, expect the phone to start ringing early and often.