NFL Week 1 rookie highlights: The Nick Bosa theorem

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GLENDALE, ARIZONA – SEPTEMBER 08: TJ Hockenson #88 of the Detroit Lions catches a touchdown pass during the fourth quarter while being defended by DJ Swearinger Sr #36 and Byron Murphy #33 of the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 08, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) /

T.J. Hockenson, TE, Detroit Lions

6 receptions, 131 yards, 1 touchdown

Hockenson had a stunning debut Sunday, with 6 catches for 131 yards and a touchdown.

He outshined #1 overall pick Kyler Murray for the majority of the game, and showed off some of his receiving talents. Hockenson used multiple over or crossing routes to free himself from defenders and create mismatches with linebackers, and his speed created separation across the field.

He uses his body well when leveraging inside defenders, and did well to get himself open on a rollout by Matthew Stafford for his first career NFL touchdown.

Hockenson is big for a tight end, at 6’5”, 247 pounds, but is still able to show off his 4.70 40 time speed. He is still a strong run-blocker and can help Kerryon Johnson outside the tackles this year.

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