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The Minnesota Vikings entered Week 5 already thin at tight end, and their situation deteriorated further when T.J. Hockenson exited the game against the New Orleans Saints with a suspected concussion. As of Thursday morning, the team has provided no update on Hockenson's condition, leaving head coach Kevin O'Connell and his staff in a precarious spot. Even with the benefit of a bye week, the Vikings can ill afford another offensive setback.
Compounding the issue is the absence of Josh Oliver, who is on injured reserve with a biceps tear that could end his season. Oliver had been a reliable blocking presence and a subtle threat in the passing game. His unavailability is a significant blow, and the tight end position will become even more strained if Hockenson misses an extended period.
In the Week 5 matchup against the Saints, Minnesota turned to Gavin Bartholomew and Ben Yurosek at tight end. Bartholomew assumed the receiving role, while Yurosek primarily handled blocking duties. If O'Connell is uncertain about relying on that duo should Hockenson remain sidelined indefinitely, the Vikings may need to look outside the organization for reinforcements.
Three Free-Agent Tight End Targets for Minnesota
Here are three potential options for O'Connell and company to consider as they seek to add depth and talent at the position.
1. Taysom Hill
A versatile weapon, Taysom Hill could offer the Vikings a multitude of roles. During his time with the Saints, he lined up as a tight end, quarterback, receiver, and special teams contributor. At 36 years old, Hill wouldn't be a long-term solution for Minnesota, but that's not what the team needs. The Vikings would likely ask him to run routes and serve as a receiver, a role he has filled over nine NFL seasons. Hill has caught 110 passes for 1,034 yards and 11 touchdowns, while also logging 489 rushing attempts for 2,551 yards and 34 scores. However, his age and unconventional skill set might lead the Vikings to seek a more traditional, well-rounded tight end. Still, Hill is worth considering.
2. Will Dissly
Will Dissly is six years younger than Hill but brings eight years of NFL experience. Though he is best known for his tenure with the Seahawks, he spent the past two seasons with the Chargers, appearing in 24 games and recording 61 receptions for 578 yards and two touchdowns. Dissly fits the mold of a traditional tight end, similar to Hockenson. He catches about 80% of his targets and could be a dependable option for Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray if Hockenson can't play. At six-foot-four and 265 pounds, Dissly has the size to contribute as a blocker as well. According to Pro Football Focus, he posted run-block and pass-block grades of 64.1 and 74.3, respectively, last season. Even if Minnesota only wants a temporary fill-in until Hockenson returns, exploring the former NFC West standout makes sense.
3. Tyler Conklin
Bringing back a former Vikings tight end could be a logical move. Drafted 157th overall in 2018, Tyler Conklin spent his first four seasons with the Purple and Gold before moving on to the Jets, Chargers, and Lions, and he is set to become a free agent in 2026. Conklin was once a sought-after commodity; after leaving Minnesota, he signed a three-year, $21 million deal with the Jets and played out the entire contract. Last season, his one-year deal with Detroit was worth $1.3 million, suggesting he could be a relatively inexpensive addition six weeks into the season. Conklin could be an intriguing practice-squad stash who could be elevated if needed while Hockenson is out. He could support Bartholomew and Yurosek without hindering their development, providing security and depth in the meantime.
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Adam Carlson has over 13 years of experience covering the Vikings for The Viking Age on FanSided, also hosting the Purple People Podcast from 2012-2026. He's a lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan who is on a weight loss journey in Michigan. He loves horror movies, comedy, cats, pro wrestling, and video games. He has watched the purple and gold play live 10 times....and Minnesota won all of those games. Coincidence? Follow mnvikingzombie.