Vikings Training Camp 2021: Top 4 takeaways from Day 11
By Adam Carlson
Tight ends are the right ends
The hype train is in full effect for Irv Smith Jr. this year. Many are expecting him to be a breakout player this year and have a great season in terms of receptions and touchdowns now that Kyle Rudolph is no longer with the squad.
Smith isn’t the only tight end with a chance to make a big impact this year. Courtney Cronin revealed in her observations on Twitter that the tight ends as a whole have looked impressive during training camp and a new name got mentioned with the group.
Of course, Tyler Conklin is back to pair with Smith and provide rest or some help in sets with two tight ends. He has proven himself to be a reliable receiver and solid blocker when his number is called to be a contributor.
Monday saw fifth-round draft pick Zach Davidson haul in a 20-yard touchdown in seven-on-seven red zone drills. The 6’7 tight end could be a sneaky weapon in goal-line situations thanks to his massive catch radius. Watch for him to continue to separate himself from other tight ends when preseason games roll around.