The reconstruction continues again and again on the side of Detroit. According to NFL Media, the Lions traded TJ Hockenson, a 2023 fourth-round draft pick and a conditional 2024 fourth-round pick to the Vikings. In return, they get a 2023 second-round pick and a 2024 third-round pick.
Hockenson, 25, was selected with the 8th pick in the first round of the 2019 Draft by Detroit upon leaving the University of Iowa. Since arriving in Michigan, the tight end had racked up 2,068 yards and 15 receiving touchdowns, and was a safety valve for Jared Goff.
With this departure, the Lions further accentuate their reconstruction by separating from a young tight end Pro Bowler against draft picks to come. This recruitment, for Minnesota, however shows the ambitions of the franchise this season. Especially since their holder, Irv Smith, should be unavailable until the playoffs, if the Vikings play them: they are off to a good start with a 6-1 record.
Trade! Tea #lions are sending TE TJ Hockenson to the #Vikingssources tell me and @RapSheet.
Minnesota sends a 2023 second-round pick and 2024 third-round pick to Detroit for Hockenson, a 2023 fourth-round pick and a 2024 conditional fourth-round pick. pic.twitter.com/9P0ZjbS64g
—Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 1, 2022