This season, the Minnesota Vikings are struggling. After 7 weeks, they are 3-4 and placed at the bottom of the NFC North division. And Head Coach Kevin O’Connell just announced a decision that might bring more problems for their starting QB, J.J. McCarthy. It hurts their offense as well.

As the trade deadline is approaching, the rumor mill churned out reports that the Vikes are interested in offers for their TE T.J. Hockenson. He is under contract with the Minnesota Vikings through 2027. He signed a four-year deal worth $66 million, making him one of the top-paid tight ends in the league.

In 7 games (all starters) of the 2025 season, Hockenson has logged 27 passes for 222 yards and 1 touchdown. Over his career, he has consistently performed at a high level. From 2020 to 2023, he recorded 60+ receptions, 580+ yards, and 4 touchdowns each season. He posted back-to-back seasons with over 80 catches, 900 receiving yards, and 120 targets, earning two Pro Bowl selections.

With the trade deadline approaching, the Denver Broncos have shown interest in Hockenson. Despite signing two-time Pro Bowler Evan Engram this offseason to a two-year, $23 million deal, the Broncos still need a stronger presence at tight end. Engram has 22 catches for 179 yards and 1 touchdown this season, while the rest of Denver’s tight ends, Adam Trautman, Nate Adkins, and Lucas Krull, have combined for only 15 catches, 121 yards, and 2 touchdowns.

Reports say the Broncos could offer a 2026 third-round draft pick for Hockenson. Adding him would give quarterback Bo Nix another reliable receiving target and reduce the load on Engram, who excels as a receiving tight end but contributes less as a blocker. The Vikings would gain draft capital in exchange for a player still under a big contract.

The Los Angeles Rams have also expressed trade interest in Hockenson, though details remain unclear. Both teams view him as a potential upgrade who could make a significant impact in the second half of the season.

If he departs, it would be a major blow to the Vikings’ offense. Yet, Vinne Iyer of the Sporting News had encouraged the Vikings recently.

“Let’s start by saying the Vikings, at .500, are unlikely to make a deal either way with little glaring need and limited pending free agent assets.” Iyer wrote. “But this would be interesting, given Hockenson keeps not producing as a key target for Kevin O’Connell but could turn out to be the missing third option in the adjacent Rams offense.”

J.J. McCarthy is still recovering from an injury

J.J. McCarthy entered this season as the starter after Sam Darnold left in free agency. His NFL journey hasn’t been easy. He missed his entire rookie season with a torn meniscus and then hurt his ankle in Week 2 this year against the Falcons. Before getting hurt, McCarthy showed some promise but struggled to stay consistent.

He played well for just one quarter in Week 1 against the Bears. So far this season, he has thrown 2 touchdown passes, rushed for 1 touchdown, and thrown 3 interceptions. He returned to practice before Week 7 and took part in three limited sessions. Head coach Kevin O’Connell said McCarthy might have played this week if the team had more time to rest, but they chose to give him extra days to prepare.

The Vikings expect him to start in Week 9 against the Detroit Lions. J.J. McCarthy’s absence has hurt the Vikings’ playoff hopes. The team sits at 3-4 and faces an uphill battle to reach the postseason. FanDuel lists them at +790 to make the playoffs and -1400 to miss them. Injuries have added to their problems, with issues on the offensive line and running back Aaron Jones also missing time.

While McCarthy has been out, Carson Wentz has led the offense. Wentz has gone 2-2 as a starter, throwing 5 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. He played through a painful shoulder injury in the Week 8 loss to the Chargers, where he was sacked five times and clearly wasn’t at full strength. Right now, the Vikings’ quarterback depth chart starts with J.J. McCarthy, who is expected to return in Week 9. Carson Wentz is the current starter, while rookie Max Brosmer sits third on the list as the rookie backup.

The Vikings hope McCarthy’s return will give their offense a lift and bring some energy back to the team.