5 Vikings to Watch: Preseason Week 2 vs. the Seahawks
By Nik Edlund
TE Irv Smith Jr.
Irv Smith Jr.’s debut with the Vikings was a bit of a mixed bag. He did catch 3 balls for 21 yards, but also had an illegal formation penalty and a couple of drops. Overall, he looked confused on the field and a little unsure of himself.
With those initial butterflies put to bed, it would be great to see Smith bust out with a big game against the Seahawks. The Vikings drafted this guy for his elite athletic ability. He’s very fast and extremely dangerous after the catch. On paper, there really isn’t a linebacker who can cover him, especially the second-teamers he’ll be going against on Sunday night, so the opportunity will be there for him to shine.
It would be great to see Smith bust off at least one explosive play. For him to haul in a pass and shake a tackle and then go for another 20 yards would be great on many levels. It would boost the youngster’s confidence and would also get the coaches and fanbase excited for their second-round pick.
With Bradbury, Bisi Johnson, and Alexander Mattison already having solid debuts, it’s time for Smith to put some good tape together and give opposing defenses something to fear when they face the Vikings this season.