TJ Hockenson returns, but the Vikings limit his participation against the Colts

Tight end TJ Hockenson played in his first game in 10 months, returning to a limited role for the Vikings in Sunday night's 21-13 win over the Colts.

The Vikings appeared to lighten the load on Hockenson, who had been practicing with the team since Oct. 4 but had not played since a season-ending knee injury last December. He started the game and moved into the team, playing mainly on obvious passes. Tight end Josh Oliver continued to play more of an every-down role.

Hockenson found some wiggle room downfield during a 19-yard catch in the third quarter, which helped set up a touchdown pass to receiver Jordan Addison later in the drive. Hockenson had three catches for 27 yards.

Oliver, a run-blocking specialist, remained part of the action with five catches for 58 yards and a touchdown. Oliver was taken out of the game to be evaluated for a concussion before returning in the fourth quarter and catching a 14-yard touchdown pass. Nine players were targeted, excluding receiver Justin Jefferson, who rushed for a season-high 137 yards on seven catches.

Cam Robinson started at left tackle, replacing the injured Christian Darrisaw just five days after arriving via trade from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Robinson, an eighth-year veteran, had only practiced with his new team on Thursday after arriving at the team's Eagan headquarters on Wednesday and undergoing a medical to complete the trade.

The defense was inconsistent for Darnold as he didn't help his line by holding onto the ball during four sacks. Robinson was called for an offensive hold in the second quarter and prevented a 6-yard completion. Coach Kevin O'Connell had some nice plans to help the rookie, using blocking receiver Trent Sherfield to double the lead while Darnold targeted receiver Justin Jefferson for a 20-yard gain.

Veteran swing tackle David Quessenberry, who replaced Darrisaw in the Oct. 24 loss to the Rams, returned to his backup role.