Report: Lions ‘expected to prioritize’ contract extension for TE T.J. Hockenson

Contract negotiations between the Detroit Lions and tight end T.J. Hockenson, which began earlier this offseason, now appear to be coming to a head. 

According to ESPN's Jeremey Fowler, the Lions are "expected to prioritize" an extension for the one-time Pro Bowler. 

The Lions attempted to reach an extension with Hockenson in April before exercising the fifth-year option of his rookie deal. 

Hockenson's fifth-year option carries a $9.3 million cap hit for the Lions in 2023. 

Through three professional seasons, Hockenson has begun to climb up the NFL's tight end ladder.

Drafted eighth overall by the Lions in 2019, Hockenson struggled during his rookie season, finishing with 32 catches for 367 yards and two touchdowns. However, he bounced back in a big way in 2021 and 2022. 

In 2020, Hockenson earned his first pro bowl nod, tallying 67 catches for 723 yards and six touchdowns. 

Last season, Hockenson hauled in 61 catches for 583 yards and four touchdowns despite being limited to only 12 games. Hockenson's 2021 campaign ended in December after he underwent season-ending thumb surgery.