The Great Hockenson Heist: What Did the Detroit Lions Actually Get?
Remember T.J. Hockenson? The athletic tight end, the touchdown machine, the guy who maybe deserved a slightly better supporting cast than the Detroit Lions of yore? Yeah, well, about that...
Trading Away a Fan Favorite (and a First-Round Pick!)
Back in November 2022, the Lions made a move that had jaws dropping faster than a fumble in the end zone. They dealt Hockenson, a former first-round pick himself, to the Minnesota Vikings, their division rivals. Now, this wouldn't be so crazy except for what they got in return: a measly bag of draft picks. We're talking a second-round pick in 2023 (which turned into wide receiver Rashee Rice) and a future third-rounder in 2024.
Tip: Review key points when done.
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| What Did Detroit Get For Hockenson |
Wait, What? Is That All?
Yep, that's all. For a talented young tight end with Pro Bowl potential! Lions fans were left wondering if general manager Brad Holmes had accidentally stumbled into a fire sale at a discount draft pick store.
But Maybe There's a Method to the Madness?
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
Here's the thing: the Lions are in rebuild mode, and Hockenson was due for a big contract extension. Maybe the front office just wasn't sold on making him the centerpiece of their offense. Or maybe they just really liked the value they got for him.
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Who Won the Hockenson Trade?
Tip: The details are worth a second look.
That's still being debated. The Vikings got a weapon for Kirk Cousins, but they also gave up valuable draft capital. The Lions used those picks to bolster their defense and receiving corps, which could pay off in the long run. Only time will tell who truly came out on top in this trade caper.
How to FAQs:
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
How to Get Over the Hockenson Trade?
- Focus on the future: The Lions are building something new, and those draft picks could be key contributors.
- Distract yourself with Honolulu blue Kool-Aid: There's nothing a little optimism can't fix!
- Channel your inner Matthew Stafford: Just win, baby! That'll make you forget all about trades from the past.
How to Trade Like a Pro (Even if You're Not Brad Holmes):
- Do your research: Know the value of your players and what you're looking for in return.
- Don't be afraid to haggle: You never know what you might get! (But maybe avoid fire sales at discount draft pick stores.)
- Trust your gut: Sometimes the best trades are the ones that feel right.
How to Become a Detroit Lions Fan (Why Would You Do That?):
- High pain tolerance is a must.
- Stock up on antacids.
- But hey, the Honolulu blue jerseys are pretty sweet!
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