Irv Smith Jr’s Career With Vikings Appears Over

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and the Minnesota Vikings splashed on the trade market Tuesday, sending away a 2nd and 3rd round pick, in return for TJ Hockenson and a couple of 4th’s. Not long after, it was reported that Irv Smith Jr would be out 8-10 weeks, after he sustained a high ankle sprain late in the win vs Arizona.

With two years remaining on Hockenson’s deal and Smith in the last year of his, it was worth asking what the Vikings’ plan was at tight end, long term. Chris Tomasson (Pioneer Press) did just that and the answer he got was telling.

A source on the chances of TE Irv Smith Jr. remaining with the #Vikings next season following his suffering of a high ankle sprain and the acquisition of TE T.J. Hockenson: “He’s a lame duck.’’ Smith becomes a free agent next March.

— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) November 1, 2022

Goodbye and Good Luck, Irv Smith Jr

Only Chris Tomasson could air this quote and not get in trouble for it. But just because the anonymous source was brutally honest, doesn’t mean the sentinment isn’t correct. Irv Smith Jr will be a free agent in the coming offseason and, with Hockenson now on roster, has little to no chance at wearing purple beyond 2022.

TJ Hockenson is the new tight end for the Minnesota Vikings. That’s why Kwesi was willing to give up two day-2 picks to get him. He can catch and block. That’s what makes the former Iowa Hawkeye a top tight end in the NFL. We’ll see how soon he can make an impact on the field.

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan