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The injury occurred on the game's second play when Hockenson hauled in a 7-yard reception. Upon hitting the turf at Caesars Superdome, his head made forceful contact with the ground. He remained down for several minutes while receiving medical attention before eventually walking to the sideline. He was subsequently taken to the locker room to undergo a formal concussion evaluation, from which he did not return.
Vikings Roster Depth Tested Amid Mounting Injuries
Hockenson’s departure left the Vikings thin at the tight end position, particularly as the team was already managing the absence of backup Josh Oliver, who is currently sidelined with a torn biceps muscle. To compensate for the loss, Minnesota turned to Gavin Bartholomew and Ben Yurosek. Yurosek, who had been activated from injured reserve just ahead of the weekend, saw immediate action alongside Bartholomew, with both players recording receptions from quarterback
The offensive lineup was already depleted heading into the game in New Orleans. The Vikings were without three key starters: left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who is also dealing with a concussion, left guard Donovan Jackson, who is out with a knee injury, and wide receiver Jordan Addison, who is sidelined due to a hamstring issue. Furthermore, the team remains without running back Jordan Mason, who is currently on injured reserve for at least one more week as he recovers from a fractured thumb. The team will now look to navigate the remainder of the game with their adjusted personnel groupings.
