2019 NFL Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 27: Nick Bosa #97 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after sacking Kyle Allen #7 of the Carolina Panthers (not pictured) during the first quarter at Levi's Stadium on October 27, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

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8. T.J. Hockenson, TE, Detroit Lions

2019 Stats: 32 receptions, 367 receiving yards, 2 TDs

Overall, it was an underwhelming first season from T.J. Hockenson. The Detroit Lions invested big in the athletic tight end, hoping he’d quickly develop into a dangerous weapon for their pass-happy offense. While that didn’t happen, there’s still hope for a brighter future.

At first, it looked like Hockenson was going to live up to the hype. Storming out of the gates, the Iowa product hauled in six passes for 131 yards and a touchdown in his NFL debut. From there on, though, there wasn’t much to be excited about.

Injuries eventually did Hockenson in, as the Lions placed him on Injured Reserve due to a nagging ankle malady at the beginning of December. All in all, he only saw the field for 12 games (seven starts) and spent much of that time playing through pain. The hope now is that he can get healthy over the offseason and come back ready to shine as a sophomore.

There’s no need to go throwing around the bust label with Hockenson, who flashed playmaking potential at times as a rookie. When at full strength, it’s clear he’s capable of upgrading a passing game. Look for far more production from the sensational young tight end in 2020.

Grade: C+

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