Irv Smith Jr. – TE (Alabama)
Tight end isn’t a pressing need for the Vikings, but it is one they need to start preparing for. After the 2019 season, only Tyler Conklin and Cole Hikutini will remain on the team’s roster. They either have to extend Kyle Rudolph‘s contract before next season or find his replacement.
At 6-foot-2, 242 pounds, Smith is not a blazer, but he is plenty fast with very reliable hands. His routes are fluid and he’s also a willing blocker.
Smith could stand to spend some time in the weight room to build up his strength. He could also work to improve his blocking. But other than that, he is ready to contribute from day one as he’s played against the best in the nation during his time in the SEC.
If Smith falls to Minnesota in round two, he’d be awfully hard for them to pass on. He could make an impact as a pass-catching weapon in two tight end sets and begin to form a rapport with Kirk Cousins.
Smith would also find it very helpful spending a year under Rudolph and learning from the veteran tight end. Not only could Rudolph teach him how to be successful on the field, but also how to be a productive and valuable member of the community that drafts him.