T.J. Hockenson is Not in Concussion Protocol

Lions tight end was hit in the back and had the wind knocked out of him

On fourth down and goal late in the game and the game hanging in the balance, the Lions called a play that targeted third-string tight end Logan Thomas. 

When the Lions inexplicably didn't have their best weapons on the field late in the game, many questioned why wasn't rookie tight end T.J. Hockenson on the field?

Matt Patricia was asked Monday in his teleconference regarding Hockenson's health status. 

Patricia said he was hit in the back and that he felt the hit was clean. As a result,  it took the breath out of him. He is not in concussion protocol at this time. 

During his rookie campaign, Hockenson has 22 receptions for 296 yards and two touchdowns.