T.J. Hockenson Current Salary and Contract Overview
T.J. Hockenson earned a base salary of $19.375 million for the 2024 NFL season under his contract with the Minnesota Vikings, with a cap hit of $22.23 million, according to Overthecap.comT.J. Hockenson contract details. His total guaranteed money through 2024 sits at $40 million, with the full deal extending through the 2027 campaign.
The base salary figure reflects his fourth-year transition tender and subsequent restructured deal signed after being traded from the Detroit Lions in March 2024. The cap number includes his base, prorated signing bonus, and any roster bonuses scheduled for the season, which are standard for a tight end in the top tier of the position.
Breakdown of Earnings and Cap Structure
Hockenson's 2024 cap hit of $22.23 million places him among the highest-paid tight ends in the NFL, a ranking driven by his production and the competitive market for pass-catching tight endsMinnesota Vikings salary cap data. His base salary of $19.375 million is the guaranteed cash he receives from the team, separate from any performance incentives.
The contract includes a fifth-year option exercised by the Vikings, which guarantees a 2025 salary of around $23 million based on the tender calculation formula. His cap number can fluctuate slightly depending on how the team structures incentives and roster bonuses, but the guaranteed base remains fixed through the deal's duration.
Comparison to Other NFL Tight Ends
Hockenson's salary ranks in the top five among NFL tight ends, trailing only players like Travis Kelce and Mark Andrews in total compensation structureNFL tight end salary rankings. His cap number is higher than most second-year tight ends and comparable to veteran starters on contending teams, reflecting his role as a primary red-zone target.
In terms of production per dollar, Hockenson's 2023 season with the Lions saw him record 68 receptions for 830 yards and five touchdowns, giving him a strong catch-rate and target share that justifies the investmentT.J. Hockenson Pro Football Reference stats. His salary is expected to rise further if the Vikings pick up the option or negotiate an extension, keeping him in the upper echelon of tight-end earnings.