Vikings' T.J. Hockenson Reportedly Restructures Contract to Open Salary Cap Space for Free Agency

The Minnesota Vikings agreed to a restructured contract with tight end T.J. Hockenson on Saturday, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Per Pelissero, the Vikings lowered Hockenson's cap number by $5 million with the move and will be keeping him on their roster heading into the 2026 season.

ESPN's Kevin Seifert noted that the 28-year-old was set to have a cap number of $21.3 million in 2026 prior to the restructure, which represented the highest mark among all tight ends.

Hockenson's hefty salary made his future in Minnesota uncertain heading into the offseason, with Seifert previously reporting that the team possibly choosing to move on from him wasn't "out of the question."

It ultimately appears as though he'll remain on the Vikings in 2026, however.

Hockenson initially signed a four-year contract worth $66 million with Minnesota in Aug. 2023. He was entering his first full season as a member of the Vikings at the time, as they acquired him in a Nov. 2022 trade with the Detroit Lions.

Hockenson went on to catch 95 passes for 960 yards and five touchdowns during his 2023 campaign, but his season ended early due to a torn ACL and MCL suffered in Week 16.

The injury also forced him to miss time in 2024, hauling in 41 receptions for 455 yards in 10 appearances.

Hockenson eventually suited up in 15 contests during the 2025 season, racking up 51 catches for 438 yards and three scores. It's worth noting that Minnesota's quarterbacks owned a 110.8 passer rating when targeting him, according to Pro Football Focus.

Vikings interim general manager Rob Brzezinski has focused on increasing the team's financial flexibility with free agency approaching, as running back Aaron Jones and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave have reportedly been informed that they'll be released barring a trade.

Minnesota is also expected to release defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, per Seifert.

While Hockenson doesn't seem to be headed towards a change of scenery, he'll be playing on a restructured deal in 2026.