Minnesota Vikings face QB dilemmas as T.J. Hockenson’s fantasy value dwindles
The Minnesota Vikings have embarked on a tumultuous journey this season, marked by erratic performances and significant roster changes. After a confusing start that included three lackluster quarters in Week 1, the team managed a dramatic comeback led by J.J. McCarthy to secure a win. However, Week 2 brought a stark contrast, as the Vikings stumbled through a dismal outing, leading to a pivotal quarterback switch from McCarthy to Carson Wentz.
Amid this upheaval, T.J. Hockenson, once regarded as a premier tight end, has found himself overshadowed—not by the chaos surrounding the team, but by his own lack of production. In the opening week, Hockenson recorded only three receptions for a meager 15 yards, followed by a disheartening performance in Week 2, where he caught just one pass for 12 yards.
Fantasy Football Dilemma
In the realm of fantasy football, Hockenson was anticipated to be a reliable starting tight end for many. However, as the season progresses, the prospect of starting him in Week 3 seems increasingly bleak.
Should fantasy managers consider dropping Hockenson? For now, it appears wise to hold onto him for at least one more week. The introduction of Wentz could potentially rejuvenate Hockenson’s production, though the uncertainty of McCarthy’s return looms large. Hockenson has a proven track record, making it difficult to dismiss him entirely after just two weeks of underwhelming performances.
Exploring Alternatives
While holding onto Hockenson might be prudent, it’s also advisable to explore replacement options from the waiver wire. One name to consider is Harold Fannin Jr., a rookie tight end for the Browns, who could provide an immediate boost. Other viable alternatives include Hunter Henry of the Patriots and Brenton Strange from the Jaguars. For those looking deeper, Dalton Schultz of the Texans and Cade Otton of the Buccaneers could also be worthwhile picks.
Despite the current struggles, Hockenson has the potential to find his rhythm again. His playing style leans towards being more big-play dependent, suggesting that explosive performances could be on the horizon. However, if circumstances demand dropping him, be prepared for the challenges of navigating the tight end position moving forward. The situation would undoubtedly be simpler if Hockenson could quickly revert to his former form, but for now, fantasy managers will need to stay vigilant in their roster management.
