Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson is getting close to making his return to the field.

After talking glowingly about his progress over the past few weeks, head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed the Vikings will open Hockenson’s practice window on Friday afternoon. He’s been on the Physically Unable to Perform List as he recovers from a torn anterior cruciate ligament he suffered in a Dec. 24 game against Detroit.

“It’s going to be great to have him back on the grass with the guys,” O’Connell said. “I know he’s been looking forward to it.”

The decision gives the Vikings some flexibility as they work Hockenson back into the mix. Technically, the Vikings have 21 days from the time they open the practice window to determine when they want to elevate Hockenson to the active roster.

Notably, O’Connell said Hockenson will travel to London with the Vikings ahead of Sunday’s game against the New York Jets. There’s virtually no chance Hockenson will suit up this weekend.

“It’s been a long journey,” Hockenson said. “I’m excited to be back out there.”

The injury occurred when he took a helmet from Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph directly to his right knee.

After letting his medial collateral ligament heal on its own, Hockenson had surgery to repair his anterior cruciate ligament. He’s been working closely with the training staff ever since.

“I’ve been pushing to get there as fast as I can,” Hockenson said. “I told them at the beginning, ‘You’re going to have to put the reins on me and pull me back.’ “

That’s exactly what the training staff has done as vice president of player health and performance Tyler Williams has curated a plan specifically tailored to Hockenson. Now as he nears the final stages the Vikings are thrilled to have him back with the offense already firing on all cylinders.

“He’s obviously a playmaker and a game changer,” quarterback Sam Darnold said. “It’ll be huge to be able to get him back and I’m excited to work with him.”

The Vikings have their bye week after Sunday’s game, which will give Hockenson some extra time to get up to speed. The Vikings host the Lions on Oct. 20, then travel to play the Los Angeles Rams on Oct. 24.

If the Vikings use all 21 days of the practice window, Hockenson would return against the Indianapolis Colts on Nov. 3. It’s also possible the Vikings activate Hockenson before that if he’s progressing at a rapid rate.

“He’s done a great job,” O’Connell said. “Now we’ve got to get him acclimated to football.”

Though he’s been trying to simulate practice as best he can by running routes, Hockenson knows it’s going to be a little bit before he’s ready to play in a game. Not that he’s putting a ceiling on himself as he sets his sights on making his debut.

“I feel great,” Hockenson said. “It’s kind of like riding a bike.”