Minnesota Vikings' tight end T.J. Hockenson is set to return to the field after recovering from a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee, which he sustained last season.

Why it matters: Hockenson's return provides a significant boost to the Vikings' offense and adds another weapon for quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

What's new: The Vikings have opened Hockenson's practice window, indicating that he may soon be activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.

Yes, but: There is no specific timeline provided for Hockenson's return to the active roster, but the timing suggests he could be back in action by Week 8.

What to watch: Hockenson will travel with the team to London for their game against the New York Jets and will participate in Friday's practice, signaling positive progress in his recovery.

What's next: The Vikings will continue to monitor Hockenson's progress and assess his readiness to rejoin the team in full capacity.

Hockenson's rehabilitation has been praised by coach Kevin O'Connell, who acknowledged the need to acclimate him back to the demands of football.

• Kevin O'Connell on Hockenson's rehabilitation: "He's done a great job. He feels great, but we've got to get him acclimated back to football."

Despite his injury, Hockenson remains one of the most productive tight ends in the league since joining the Vikings.

• He leads all tight ends with 155 receptions and ranks second in receiving yards with 1,479 in just 25 career games with the team.

Hockenson also emphasized the importance of player protection in the NFL, distinguishing between physical play and reckless behavior.

• T.J. Hockenson on player protection in the NFL: "In the NFL, players protect players. There is a difference between physical and reckless play."

The bottom line: Hockenson's return adds a dynamic playmaker to the Vikings' offense and highlights the team's commitment to player safety and well-being.

Minnesota Vikings' tight end T.J. Hockenson is set to return to the field after recovering from a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee, which he sustained last season.

Why it matters: Hockenson's return provides a significant boost to the Vikings' offense and adds another weapon for quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

What's new: The Vikings have opened Hockenson's practice window, indicating that he may soon be activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.

Yes, but: There is no specific timeline provided for Hockenson's return to the active roster, but the timing suggests he could be back in action by Week 8.

What to watch: Hockenson will travel with the team to London for their game against the New York Jets and will participate in Friday's practice, signaling positive progress in his recovery.

What's next: The Vikings will continue to monitor Hockenson's progress and assess his readiness to rejoin the team in full capacity.

Hockenson's rehabilitation has been praised by coach Kevin O'Connell, who acknowledged the need to acclimate him back to the demands of football.

• Kevin O'Connell on Hockenson's rehabilitation: "He's done a great job. He feels great, but we've got to get him acclimated back to football."

Despite his injury, Hockenson remains one of the most productive tight ends in the league since joining the Vikings.

• He leads all tight ends with 155 receptions and ranks second in receiving yards with 1,479 in just 25 career games with the team.

Hockenson also emphasized the importance of player protection in the NFL, distinguishing between physical play and reckless behavior.

• T.J. Hockenson on player protection in the NFL: "In the NFL, players protect players. There is a difference between physical and reckless play."

The bottom line: Hockenson's return adds a dynamic playmaker to the Vikings' offense and highlights the team's commitment to player safety and well-being.