Former Detroit Lions TE T.J. Hockenson Reportedly Has Delusional Contract Demands

T.J. Hockenson may have unreasonable expectations.

Former Detroit Lions tight end T.J. Hockenson is in the final season of a four-year, $19.82 million rookie contract. 

The former first-round pick was traded last season, as the Lions decided to move on from a player who did not live up to expectations based on where he was drafted. 

While productive, the team likely expected Hockenson to secure additional yards after the catch and stay on the field more, as the talented tight end often battled injuries. 

According to The Athletic, "Hockenson wants to reset the market with a historic contract extension for tight ends. The two-time Pro Bowler has missed most of training camp with an ear infection and back soreness."

Hockenson, 26, joined the Vikings via a midseason trade last year.

In 10 games with the Vikings last season, the former Hawkeyes tight end recorded 60 receptions for 519 yards and three touchdowns.

Hockenson has participated in individual drills during training camp, but has not participated in team periods for the past three weeks. 

Could Hockenson be seeking north of $17 million annually? 

Darren Waller's average salary of $17 million is tops in the NFL currently, followed by George Kittle ($15 million), Travis Kelce ($14.3 million), Dallas Goedert ($14.2 million) and Mark Andrews ($14 million), according to Bring Me The Sports. 

"Some of his side field work kind of popped up to cause some lower back stiffness," Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell recently explained to reporters, who wondered if his limited participation was due to contract issues. "But, he has not indicated to me one time that it is about his contract."