We fully expected Minnesota Vikings tight end Irv Smith to have a solid outing last week against the Chicago Bears. The biggest thing he had going for his fantasy production in that one was the fact that Kyle Rudolph was out of action with a foot injury. It didn’t quite pan out that way, and with a game against the Saints on tap this week, it’s look like a fade for Minnesota’s tight ends.
Fantasy Football analysis: Vikings TE Irv Smith
Smith caught three of four passes for 37 yards. Unfortunately, the one he didn’t catch was one he really should have hauled in because it would have been a touchdown. Instead, the Vikings leaned on tight end Tyler Conklin to help with the scoring; he caught three of four passes for 57 yards and a touchdown.
Smith’s alternated scoring over his last four games, but that’s going to be difficult to find the end zone this week. Prior to giving up a touchdown to Travis Kelce last week, the Saints haven’t allowed one since Week 5. If the Vikings get Rudolph back in the lineup this week, Smith can easily be avoided.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
Smith is no more than a risky TE2 this week.