The National Football League trade deadline is today and there had been speculation surrounding the Minnesota Vikings desire to acquire another weapon on offense, whether it be wide receiver or a tight end.

Recently, Vikings tight end Irv Smith Jr. suffered a high ankle sprain which could lead to extended time off the field. Obviously, the Vikings didn't want to wait to find out how long they'd be without their top tight end, so they worked a trade to upgrade the postion.

Multiple sources, including noted NFL insider Adam Schefter, are reporting the Vikings have a worked a trade with the the Detroit Lions to acquire Pro Bowl TE T.J. Hockenson. While it's rare to deal a player of that caliber within your own division, the Lions must've felt what the Vikings were offering was too good to pass up.

Get our free mobile app

According to NFL.com, the Lions are trading tight end T.J. Hockenson, a 2023 fourth-round pick and a conditional 2024 fourth-round pick to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for a 2023 second-round pick and a 2024 third-round pick.

Hockenson was selected No. 8 overall by Detroit in the 2019 NFL Draft. A Pro Bowler in 2020, Hockenson has 186 receptions for 2,068 yards and 15 touchdowns in four seasons (47 games).  So far this season, he has produced 26 receptions for 395 yards and three touchdowns.

While the Vikings are reportedly surrendering high draft picks to acquire Hockenson, it may very well prove to be worth it as he will not simply be a one season rental. He is under contract through the 2023 season provided the Vikings elect to exercise his fifth-year option this upcoming offseason. This seems to be a deal the Vikings made with the hope of keeping Hockenson with the team for years to come.

10 Minnesota Vikings Kickers Since 1998

The Minnesota Vikings will head into the 2021 season with yet another new kicker, after releasing Dan Bailey in March. The Vikings certainly have had their fair share of kickers in recent years. Let's take a look back at who has kicked for the team since 1998. Some of these guys may be better than you remember, but there are likely a few you'd like to forget.
Get our free mobile app

TACKLE THESE: Check Out the Best Uniforms In Each NFL Team's History

More From KROC-AM