The Minnesota Vikings made a bold move, deciding to bench tight end T.J. Hockenson in Thursday night's game against the Los Angeles Rams.
But don’t think they’re keeping him on the sidelines for long. The Vikings are set to activate Hockenson on Friday to their 53-man roster, with every intention of unleashing him in their Week 9 showdown against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday Night Football. It’s clear they’re saving their playmaker for the Colts, aiming to make a statement under the primetime lights.
T.J. Hockenson has been sidelined ever since a brutal ACL and MCL tear in his right knee during a Dec. 24 game against the Detroit Lions. Since then, he’s spent both training camp and the entire season so far on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. The Vikings have been counting down the days, hoping to bring back their star tight end at full strength—because when he’s back, they want him making an impact.
Lions' Jameson Williams suspended 2 games for PED policy violation
The NFL dropped a bombshell on the Detroit Lions Thursday, suspending wide receiver Jameson Williams for two games without pay for violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing substances.
Williams, who will be eligible to rejoin the team on Nov. 4 after the Lions’ Week 9 game against the Green Bay Packers, didn’t put up a fight, opting not to appeal the suspension. Through his agent, Rocky Arceneaux, he expressed shock and confusion, saying, “the news came as a complete surprise that I am still trying to understand.” The Lions will have to push on without him for two crucial games as they chase a playoff spot.
Jameson Williams came out swinging after his suspension, making it crystal clear he doesn’t even take supplements, vitamins, or over-the-counter meds. "At no time have I ever taken something in an attempt to cheat or look for an unfair advantage," he said, adding that he understands the responsibility he bears for everything he puts in his body. But he’s taking accountability, despite the shock of the league’s notification.
This isn’t Williams' first run-in with league policies. Earlier in 2023, he was hit with a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s gambling policy after mobile betting on non-NFL games at a team facility. Add to that the 11 games he missed as a rookie due to a college ACL injury, and it's been a tough road for the No. 12 pick out of Alabama. Despite it all, Williams has proven his talent, ranking second on the Lions in receiving yards (361) and touchdowns (3). Now, he's just waiting for his shot to bounce back—again.
Jameson Williams made it clear he’s heartbroken over the suspension, saying, "I have nothing but love and respect for this game, my teammates, coaches, the Lions organization, and the City of Detroit." While accepting the NFL’s decision is tough, Williams respects his team too much to keep dragging out the discussion, pledging this will be his last word on the matter.
It’s been a rocky start for Williams, but Lions head coach Dan Campbell is standing by his guy. Campbell spoke with conviction: "I trust this kid. I trust him. And unfortunately, you’ve got to pay for your sins." For Campbell, Williams is still climbing. Even after a slip, that rope remains, tied tightly to the team. In the meantime, the Lions will rely on their other offensive threats, like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Allen Robinson, Kalif Raymond, Tim Patrick, and standout tight end Sam LaPorta, to fill the gap. For now, Williams is down, but Campbell believes he’ll be back—and stronger.
After Thursday's practice, Amon-Ra St. Brown stepped up in support of Jameson Williams, echoing Coach Campbell’s words about the team’s continued trust in their young receiver. While St. Brown admitted they’ll miss Williams’ game-breaking speed, he noted the receivers room has rallied to keep his spirits up through this “unfortunate” situation.
"We all talked to him as receivers. He's doing fine, his mental space... he’s good," St. Brown shared. "Whatever happened, happened, and he's gonna move on from it and he's handled it like a grown man."
Williams himself acknowledged the disappointment of the suspension, but he’s not backing down, saying, "I have no choice but to take it on the chin." Keeping his head up, he told ESPN he’s in "good spirits" and can’t wait to be back with his teammates.
DeAndre Hopkins wants deep playoff run from trade to Chiefs
DeAndre Hopkins is officially a Kansas City Chief, and he's not holding back about what he wants next: a deep playoff run. With three first-team All-Pro nods and seven 1,000-yard seasons, Hopkins has racked up every personal accolade imaginable. But there’s one thing missing.
“I’ve done a lot, all the accolades that I can accomplish as far as personal [goals],” Hopkins said ahead of his first practice with the Chiefs. “Playing meaningful football in January is what’s left on the list.” Now, as part of a Super Bowl contender, Hopkins has his sights set firmly on a championship.
DeAndre Hopkins isn’t just grateful for the chance to join the Kansas City Chiefs; he’s also making it clear he recognizes the significance of the move. Thanking Tennessee Titans GM Ran Carthon and his staff for sending him to a contender, he remarked, “Those guys could have traded me anywhere.”
“It means a lot,” he added. “[Playing for a contender] takes your game to a different level. It raises your focus, your drive, knowing that you're playing for something.”
Chiefs coach Andy Reid is ready to unleash Hopkins, hinting that he plans to have him on the field this Sunday against the Raiders, saying, “Why wait?” And Hopkins is more than prepared: “I’ve been in the NFL for 12 years, so I know football. Hopefully I can go out there and make some plays wherever I fit, wherever I'm needed.”
The Chiefs are desperate for receiving help after losing top wideouts Rashee Rice and Hollywood Brown for extended periods. With JuJu Smith-Schuster sidelined by a sore hamstring and Skyy Moore placed on injured reserve, Hopkins' veteran presence is more crucial than ever.
Reid praised Hopkins, highlighting his experience and versatility: “He’s a tough matchup because of his size, arm length, big body that knows how to play that in low post area very well.” Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy also chimed in, emphasizing Hopkins’ impressive catch radius and reliable hands, noting, “He’s got some of the least amount of drops in the history of the NFL.” It’s clear: the Chiefs are banking on Hopkins to make an immediate impact.
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