The Vikings lost Kyle Rudolph this offseason. Despite Rudolph’s big role in the Minnesota offense over the last 10 years, the tight end position is in relatively good shape.
That’s because of Irv Smith Jr., a tight end on the Vikings with the potential to break out, according to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox. Knox wrote:
“The departure of longtime starter Kyle Rudolph should lead to a bigger role for the former Alabama standout. Rudolph, a two-time Pro Bowler, posted 701 yards and seven touchdowns while splitting time with Smith over the past two years. Tight end Tyler Conklin remains, though he has just 32 receptions in three seasons.”
It wasn’t hard to find articles tabbing Smith as a breakout candidate in 2020, but now that Rudolph is gone, Smith having a big year is more of a sure thing. Also, expect Conklin to earn a pretty big role, assuming he is the second tight end.
