Irv Smith Jr.

Irv Smith Jr. has signed a one-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, no details as of writing on how much the deal is worth. Joe Burrow gets another talented target in the passing game.

Fantasy Impact

This is great news for Smith and his future in the NFL. Cincinnati has seen several tight ends over the past two seasons perform well for real life and fantasy. CJ Uzomah and Hayden Hurst both ended their respective stints with the Bengals as PPR TE2’s. Injuries have hampered Smith’s value over the past several seasons but he could be a breakout candidate if he manages to stay healthy in an explosive Bengals offense.

The Vikings designated Irv Smith Jr. to return from injured reserve on Wednesday.

Fantasy Impact

This is likely more of a move to get Smith healthy for the NFL playoffs. T.J. Hockenson should still be fine to start for fantasy managers in the fantasy championship this week.

According to Vikings' coach Kevin O'Connell, Irv Smith (ankle) to almost ready to return.

Fantasy Impact

Smith is still officially on the IR, so he won't be back this weekend. As the Vikings acquired T.J. Hockenson since Smith injured his ankle in Week 8, his fantasy value for the remainder of this season is nil regardless of when he's activated.

Irv Smith Jr. is expected to miss 8 to 10 weeks with his high ankle sprain.

Fantasy Impact

The trade for T.J. Hockenson signaled that Smith's ankle injury was worse than the Vikings initially thought. Smith is droppable in all formats at this point because even if he returns near the playoffs, the presence of Hockenson will nullify his productivity immensely.

Irv Smith Jr. potentially suffered a high-ankle sprain during Week 8 vs the Cardinals. The Vikings are still confirming the injury and figuring out a timeline.

Fantasy Impact

This is tough news for the Vikings TE, but a firmer confirmation as to the injury should come in the coming days. If he is forced to miss extended time, Johnny Mundt would likely become the starting TE in Minnesota.