T.J. Hockenson landed in the best possible situation to take advantage of his skills when the Detroit Lions tabbed the Iowa TE with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. So says ESPN’s Matt Bowen.
In a list of the 15 rookies who landed in the best spots, Hockenson is one of a handful of first-rounders repped by Bowen.
He’s a detailed route runner who can create separation on crossers or use his 6-foot-5, 250-pound frame to make contested catches. There are a lot of positives here for the Iowa product, who can help the Lions boost their run-game production while also becoming a reliable target for quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Bowen should know. The former NFL strong safety also went to Iowa and understands the demands on Hockenson in the Hawkeyes offense and how well it will transition to the NFL.
Interestingly, fellow ESPN analyst Mike Clay includes his projection for Hockenson’s rookie stats. Clay forecasts 43 receptions for 493 yards and three TDs in 2019 for Hockenson.
