EAGAN, Minn. (AP) – The Minnesota Vikings are set to open tight end T.J. Hockenson’s practice window later this week, moving him closer to returning from a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee that he suffered late last season.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell announced on Wednesday that Hockenson, who began the season on the physically unable to perform list, will start practicing with the team on Friday in London. He will have 21 days to ramp up before the Vikings (4-0) need to add him to the active roster.
After their game in London against the New York Jets on Sunday, the Vikings will have a bye week before facing the Detroit Lions at home on October 20.
Their next game against the Los Angeles Rams is scheduled for Thursday night, October 24, which means they could potentially wait until after three more games to activate Hockenson if he’s not ready. The latest date for activation is October 25, or else he would have to be placed on season-ending injured reserve.
Utilizing the full practice window would allow Hockenson to return in time for a game against the Indianapolis Colts on November 3.
