According to the NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Vikings are planning to activate Irv Smith Jr. from injured reserve.
The #Vikings plan to activate TE Irv Smith Jr. from injured reserve, per source.
Smith last played in Week 8, when he suffered a high ankle sprain. A boost for Minnesota’s playoff push. pic.twitter.com/kpaq8B3ckK
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 6, 2023
The 24-year old tight end has been on injured reserve since sustaining a high ankle sprain in Week 8. The former second-round pick will undoubtedly be the No. 2 tight end behind T.J. Hockenson, though head coach Kevin O’Connell previously said he can envision both of them on the field together.
Hockenson has thrived since joining Minnesota, catching 59 passes for 503 yards and three touchdowns. Before his injury, Smith Jr. had 22 receptions for 168 yards and two touchdowns. He was second on the team in targets at the time, trailing only Justin Jefferson.
Meanwhile, the Vikings have waived tight end Nick Muse, presumably to make room for Smith Jr. on the 53-man roster.
The #Vikings have waived TE Nick Muse.
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) January 6, 2023
The Vikings play their final regular season game against the Bears this Sunday in Chicago at noon.
