Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed everyone’s worst fears on Tuesday.
O’Connell told reporters that tight end T.J. Hockenson tore his ACL and MCL after taking a big hit to the legs by Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph after a 24-yard reception in Sunday’s loss. O’Connell also confirmed that edge rusher D.J. Wonnum tore his quad.
Both players will be placed on injured reserve and are done for the season.
Hockenson was in the midst of a career year with 95 catches for 960 yards and five touchdowns this season. He has been a key piece of a Vikings offense that has had to overcome the loss of starting quarterback Kirk Cousins, out for the year with a torn Achilles, and star receiver Justin Jefferson, who missed seven games with a hamstring injury.
Wonnum has been an under the radar but important piece of the Vikings’ much-improved defense, having recorded 62 tackles, eight sacks and one fumble recovery.
The loss of both players is devasting for the Vikings, who are still clinging on to hopes of earning a wild-card spot in the playoffs. They’re on the outside looking in with two regular-season games remaining and have a 30% chance of making the postseason, according the NFL.com’s playoff probability.
