Plays his first game in 10 months, tight end TJ Hockenson returned to a limited role in the Vikings’ 21-13 victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday night.

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. Josh Oliver continued to play more of an every-down role at tight end.

“It was unbelievable to see 87 players running onto the field,” said Coach Kevin O’Connell said: “Because he is a foundation player for us.”

Hockenson found some space downfield during a 19-yard catch in the third quarter, which helped set up a touchdown pass to the wide receiver Jordan Addison later in the trip. 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 due to a concussion before returning and catching a 14-yard touchdown pass with 2:05 left to give the Vikings a 21-10 lead. In addition to the wide receiver, nine players were targeted Justin Jeffersonwho had a season-high 137 yards on seven catches.

Cam Robinson started at left tackle, replacing the injured man 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 headquarters in Eagan on Wednesday and undergoing a medical to complete the trade.

Protection was inconsistent for Sam Darnoldbut the quarterback didn’t help his offensive line by holding onto the ball during four sacks. Robinson had to hold in the second quarter, which prevented a 6-yard completion. O’Connell had some nice ideas to help the new guy by introducing a blocking receiver Trent Sherfield Sr. to double the advantage while Darnold took aim Justin Jefferson for a 20-yard gain.