T.J. Hockenson: Birth Date and Current Age
T.J. Hockenson was born on January 12, 1997, making him 27 years old as of mid-2025. He entered the NFL after declining his senior year at Iowa in the 2019 NFL Draft, selected by the Detroit Lions with the 15th overall pick. His age aligns with his drafted class, and his career timeline reflects consistent availability at a high level despite injury interruptions.
Professional Career Overview
Hockenson began his professional career with the Detroit Lions, where he established himself as a reliable tight end and Pro Bowl performer. His age during key moments—early 20s as a rookie, mid-to-late 20s as a veteran—has shaped his role and durability expectations. After six seasons in Detroit, he joined the Minnesota Vikings via trade ahead of the 2023 season, continuing his career at an advanced but still prime age.
2019 Draft and Rookie Impact
Drafted in the first round in 2019, Hockenson was 22 at the time of entering the league. His rookie season included 44 receptions for 564 yards and five touchdowns, establishing him as an immediate contributor. His age and college production supported a fast integration into an NFL offense, and he was one of the higher-drafted tight ends in that class.
2021 Trade to Minnesota Vikings
In 2021, after six seasons with Detroit, the Lions traded Hockenson to the Minnesota Vikings. At approximately 24 years old at the time of the trade, he was entering his athletic prime. Minnesota acquired him to stabilize a tight end position while extending his peak years, acknowledging his experience and production at age 24–26.
Contract and Earnings Context
Hockenson has carried significant cap value due to his performance and position scarcity. His contract with Detroit included escalating costs through his mid-to-late 20s, and the Vikings extended him prior to the 2023 season. Financial expectations rise with age and production, and teams plan around a tight end entering his late 20s with continued snap potential.
Contract Highlights by Team
| Team | Contract Type | Key Financial Details | Age at Signing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Lions | 4-year rookie deal (2019) | $13.08M average annual value | 22 |
| Detroit Lions | Extension (2021) | 3 years, $63M fully guaranteed | 24 |
| Minnesota Vikings | 3-year extension (2023) | $45M average annual value | 26 |
Physical Attributes and Durability
At 6 feet 4 inches and approximately 255 pounds, Hockenson’s size supports his tight end role, and his durability has allowed him to play through his late 20s at an NFL pace. Age can affect recovery and practice participation, yet Hockenson has maintained regular snaps and avoided major injuries in recent seasons, suggesting his physical management remains strong.
Durability Snapshot (2019–2024)
- 2019 (Age 22): 16 games started; foot injury limited practice reps late in season.
- 2020 (Age 23): 15 games started; minor ankle sprain, no missed games.
- 2021 (Age 24, Lions): 14 games started; hamstring, no missed games.
- 2021 (Age 24, Vikings): 7 games started; foot surgery after season.
- 2022 (Age 25): Achilles tendon repair, missed full season.
- 2023 (Age 26): 15 games started; foot soreness, fully healthy late season.
- 2024 (Age 27): 16 games started; fully healthy and high snaps.
Age-Related Performance and Usage Trends
Tight ends typically peak in their mid-to-late 20s, and Hockenson’s production reflects that pattern. His target share and red-zone value remain high as he enters his late 20s, supported by route-running refinement and reliable hands. At 27, he aligns with the veteran tier of tight ends, expected to mentor younger players while maintaining a leading role.
Usage Snapshot: Age 22 to 27
| Age | Team | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Touchdowns | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | Detroit | 44 | 564 | 5 | Rookie starter |
| 24 | Detroit | 58 | 746 | 5 | Pro Bowl alternate |
| 26 | Detroit | 41 | 587 | 6 | Pro Bowl |
| 26 | Minnesota | 27 | 324 | 2 | Injured reserve exit |
| 27 | Minnesota | 47 | 612 | 5 | Full health, leading TE |
Current Status and Outlook
At 27 years old and midway through his late 20s, T.J. Hockenson remains a top-15 tight end in snap share and target rate. Age is a natural factor, but his durability history and ongoing role in Minnesota indicate he is managing it well. Teams can expect a veteran presence with several high-level seasons remaining, provided health holds.
Comparisons and Trajectory
Compared to peers drafted in 2019, Hockenson’s age and production place him among the more accomplished tight ends. Contract extensions in Detroit and Minnesota acknowledge his continued value, and his trajectory suggests a steady decline rather than a sharp drop over the next two to three years. He remains a reliable centerpiece for offenses seeking a possession-based tight end.
Key Takeaways
- Born January 12, 1997; currently 27 years old in mid-2025.
- Drafted at 22 in 2019; traded to Minnesota at age 24.
- Signed a 3-year, $45M extension with Minnesota at age 26.
- Durability has remained strong through age 27 with a major injury in 2022.
- Expect veteran production to continue into his late 20s with gradual decline typical for the position.