Minnesota Vikings tight end Irv Smith Jr. will soon be activated from Injured Reserve.
The #Vikings plan to activate TE Irv Smith Jr. from injured reserve, according to the source.
Smith last played in Week 8, when he sprained his ankle. A boost for Minnesota’s playoff advancement. pic.twitter.com/kpaq8B3ckK
– Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 6, 2023
Smith played his last game in Week 8 and has been out ever since after spraining his ankle. Bringing Smith back only improves an already good offense. It appears that Smith’s role will be diminished somewhat with the new acquisition of TJ Hockenson.
Smith is a former second-round pick out of the University of Alabama. With only two years at Alabama, Smith’s junior year was her best season. Smith had 44 receptions for 710 yards and 7 touchdowns. He averaged a whopping 16.1 yards per catch.
The past two seasons for Smith have been plagued by injuries. Last season he only appeared in 13 games and suffered a torn meniscus. He has only appeared in 7 games this season. Perhaps the trade for TJ Hockenson only furthers his point in his lack of faith in Smith’s long-term health.
However, it appears that Smith will not return to the Minnesota Vikings next season as his rookie contract expires at the end of the season. It will be interesting to see which team gives Smith a chance. He is still only 24 years old and very talented. His main concern is staying healthy, which is a big concern.
However, Smith will be a welcome addition to the Minnesota Vikings’ offense. Quarterback Kirk Cousins will be glad to have another weapon at his disposal. The Vikings are looking for another spark after an embarrassing loss to division rival Green Bay. A game against the Chicago Bears in week 18 could do the trick for this offense.
The Minnesota Vikings have +1400 to be the NFC Super Bowl representative according to NFL betting sites. Maybe adding Smith back on offense will make his chances even better, but not by much.
