That sentiment does not seem to have morphed into any sort of resentment for Joseph or his former team. Hockenson denied that Sunday’s matchup held any extra weight because of his injury.
“Injuries happen in this game and in this league,” Hockenson said. “I’m excited to play ‘em for sure, and I’m excited to be out there with the boys this time around and be able to make an impact that way, but nothing like that really goes in your head.
“You gotta just let that kind of stuff go and realize it’s football and it’s just another game.”
Since his return against the Colts on Nov. 3, Hockenson has 39 receptions for 446 yards — the third most on the team despite having played only nine games.
He had a 114-yard performance in the Vikings’ 30-27 overtime win against the Bears on Nov. 24. He was the go-to target for quarterback Sam Darnold on the scoring drive that ended the first half against the Packers on Sunday.
Hockenson is also used in the run game as a blocker, which wide receiver Justin Jefferson said rounds him out as an offensive weapon the Vikings have been grateful to have back over the past nine games, all of which they’ve won.