The Minnesota Vikings on Friday announced the selection of T.J. Hockenson as the team’s 2024 Ed Block Courage Award recipient.
Hockenson was recognized for overcoming a torn ACL he suffered on Dec. 24, 2023, and returning to action in Week 9 against the Indianapolis Colts on Nov. 3, 2024.
His season debut included three receptions for 27 yards on four targets, highlighted by a 19-yard reception. It was followed with eight catches for 72 yards on nine targets at Jacksonville.
Hockenson totaled 41 receptions for 455 yards in 10 games (nine starts) in 2024, bringing his career totals to 382 receptions for 4,002 yards and 23 touchdowns and being named as a fourth alternate for the 2025 Pro Bowl Games.
He has played 35 games for Minnesota and recorded 196 catches for 1,934 yards and eight touchdowns since becoming a Viking.
The Ed Block Courage Foundation annually honors one player from every NFL team who exemplifies commitment to the principles of sportsmanship and courage. Recipients are selected by their teammates to be honored for their courage, inspiration and ability to overcome adversity on and off the field, while also serving their respective community throughout the season. The Ed Block Courage Award is named in honor of Ed Block, the longtime head athletic trainer of the Baltimore Colts.
“It means a lot. Teammates were there every step of the way and saw what it takes to go through that [rehab process]. It means a lot, a really cool award. I’ll get to go to Baltimore with my wife and do that full experience, so that will be a lot of fun. Really cool and excited about it.
“It’s a blessing to be able to play this game each day and to go out there each Sunday,” Hockenson added. “I’m very fortunate and have got to thank the Man above.”
Andy Kenutis/Minnesota Vikings
For more information on the Ed Block Courage Award Foundation, visit edblock.org.
Vikings Ed Block Courage Award Honorees
1984 Steve Riley
1985 Keith Nord
1986 Walker Lee Ashley
1987 Scott Studwell
1988 Leo Lewis
1989 Jim Gustafson
1990 Gary Zimmerman
1991 Terry Allen
1992 Darrin Nelson
1993 Henry Thomas
1994 Cris Carter
1995 John Randle
1996 Scottie Graham
1997 Robert Smith
1998 Randall Cunningham
1999 Robert Griffith
2000 Gary Anderson
2001 Daunte Culpepper
2002 Lewis Kelly
2003 Eric Kelly
2004 Corey Chavous
2005 Koren Robinson
2006 Matt Birk
2007 Chad Greenway
2008 Kenechi Udeze
2009 E.J. Henderson
2010 Cedric Griffin
2011 Anthony Herrera
2012 Adrian Peterson
2013 Kevin Williams
2014 Greg Jennings
2015 Phil Loadholt
2016 Teddy Bridgewater
2017 Kyle Rudolph
2018 Everson Griffen
2019 Linval Joseph
2020 Cam Smith
2021 Anthony Barr
2022 Blake Proehl
2023 Brian O’Neill
2024 T.J. Hockenson
Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to sportsmanship and courage, TJ Hockenson has been chosen by his teammates as this year’s recipient of the prestigious Ed Block Courage Award for the Minnesota Vikings! 💜💛
After suffering a devastating torn ACL during the 2023 season, Hockenson faced one of the toughest challenges of his career. Yet, his determination and resilience shined through as he made a remarkable comeback in November this year. Despite the setback, he racked up 455 yards in nine starts, showcasing not just his talent but his grit and passion for the game.
TJ’s ability to overcome adversity has been nothing short of inspiring — motivating his teammates on the field and earning the admiration of fans off of it. This award is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and the respect he commands within the Vikings organization.
With his recovery behind him, Hockenson is ready to tackle 2025 head-on, poised for a full campaign to help lead the Vikings to glory. Let’s keep the energy high, Vikings Nation — SKOL! 🏈😈
#SkolVikings #EdBlockCourageAward #TJHockenson #VikingsPride