Tight ends (3)
- Tyler Conklin
- Brandon Dillon
- Irv Smith Jr.
Irv Smith Jr. was poised to have a big year as the starting tight end for the Minnesota Vikings this year but that will need to be put on hold. The young blocker and receiver had surgery on his meniscus and will miss at least the first week of action.
Smith’s absence puts Tyler Conklin in the driver’s seat. Conklin played well in a limited role last season and should be up for the challenge of having a bigger role to kick off the 2021 NFL season. Last year, he got his first professional touchdown, this year he could build on that.
The Vikings seem to really like Dillon. He plays like a bigger receiver and could see action in that role this season. As of now, he only has one career catch for six yards, but he could improve his stock by putting up some better numbers this season.
Sadly, tall drink of water Zach Davidson doesn’t seem quite ready for the 53-man roster. He had a solid training camp but then struggled as a receiver in the preseason and was nearly invisible. Minnesota should try to get the 6’7 tight end on their practice squad.