Viking’s Irv Smith Jr. Ready for Pro Bowl Season
Brett Peterson
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Irv Smith Jr. has always been a hot name with Vikings fans. Smith was drafted by the Vikings in 2019 and was eventually going to take over for tight end Kyle Rudolph. Now that Rudolph is gone, the third year pass catching tight end is ready to make a big impact. Smith missed three games last season, but still managed to find the end zone five times. Kirk Cousins is going to love having Irv Smith Jr. in a full time role in the offense.
Irv Smith JR. and Tyler Conklin form dangerous duo
At season’s end, we could consider Smith Jr. and Conklin one of the league’s most dangerous pass catching tight end duos. Smith has the ability to stretch the field, whereas Conklin is dangerous in intermediate situations. The duo compliment each other perfectly. In certain situations, Tyler Conklin could line up as tight end, which would give the Vikings the ability to split Irv Smith Jr. out wide, creating mismatches all over the field.
Irv Smith Jr. is essentially a glorified wide receiver, which the Vikings love. Smith has the speed and route running ability to be successful all over the field. With plentiful playing time for the third year tight end, his numbers could skyrocket.
The Klint Kubiak Effect
2021 will be Klint Kubiak’s first season calling plays in the NFL. Young play callers love to rely on their talented tight ends, and Kubiak and Irv Smith Jr. are no exception. Former Vikings offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak also loved to use his tight ends as well. Especially in his earlier days play-calling. My guess is Klint learned a ton from his father, and will use both Irv Smith Jr. and Tyler Conklin to the best of his abilities. Expect both of his young play makers to have fantastic seasons.
Stat Prediction
Irv Smith Jr. has everything going for hi m in 2021.
- New offensive coordinator
- He’s TE1
- Third season in the system
Expect Smith Jr to have a stat line of 70 receptions for 800 yards, and 6-8 touchdowns.