"With the 160th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings select Jonnu Smith, tight end, Florida International."
After visiting the Vikings and having a private workout with them, the interest in Smith is evident. In the third and fourth rounds, the franchise is known for taking chances on extremely athletic or small-school prospects. Smith falls into that category.
#FIU TE Jonnu Smith has visited the #Saints, #Vikings, #Dolphins and #Titans, who also worked him out. The #Falcons did, as well.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 13, 2017
After the departure of Rhett Ellison, there are only two tight ends with playing experience left on the roster. Kyle Rudolph is coming off a career best season, and David Morgan looks to take on a bigger role, primarily as a run blocker.
After a swing and miss on Jared Cook in free agency, it’s clear that the Vikings are looking for a complimentary piece to Rudolph. Smith provides them with that as he is not a tight end that’s going to be much of an in-line blocker, but he provides you with a lot in the passing game. He has proven to be a significant threat as a receiver.