ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- A key piece of the Detroit Lions’ offense over the past four seasons was noticeably absent from the locker room following Wednesday’s practice after tight end T.J. Hockenson was traded to the Minnesota Vikings on Tuesday's trade deadline.
While it was difficult for teammates to see the 2020 Pro Bowler leave, the Lions (1-6) insist Hockenson's exit was all part of their long-term rebuilding plan, losing record or not.