Ito Smith

The Vikings signed free agent RB Ito Smith.

Fantasy Impact

Smith spent some time with the Cardinals earlier this summer but was released after their first preseason game. He'll function as RB depth for the Vikings for now.

Former Atlanta Falcons RB Ito Smith has reportedly signed a deal with the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.

Fantasy Impact

Smith saw his usage decrease during his three seasons in Atlanta, relying on his speed and hands to see meaningful snaps for the Falcons. His skill set fits well within Kliff Kingsbury's preferred 10 personnel play design, which eliminates an in-line tight-end and has one running back in the backfield with four wide receivers. Smith can be used as a third-down back or as a receiver and also adds depth behind Chase Edmonds and James Conner, who both have decorated injury histories. However, he isn't a fantasy-relevant player unless either of the starting backs suffers an injury, making Smith nothing more than a situational waiver wire acquisition in 2021.

The Atlanta Falcons are releasing Ito Smith after three seasons, the organization's social media team announces.

Fantasy Impact

Smith totaled 63 carries for 268 rushing yards (4.3 YPC) and a touchdown last season. He totaled 17 receptions on 26 targets for 75 receiving yards, as well. Smith's release is a corresponding move with the team signing Cordarrelle Patterson, signaling Patterson's set to be used mostly in the backfield.

Falcons RB Ito Smith rushed three times for nine yards and caught 1-of4 targets for seven yards in Sunday's Week 17 loss to the Buccaneers.

Fantasy Impact

Smith had fewer touches than Brian Hill and Todd Gurley. This Atlanta backfield needs to be blown up for 2021.

Falcons RB Ito Smith rushed 10 times for 46 yards while catching his lone target for a five-yard gain in Sunday's Week 16 loss to Kansas City.

Fantasy Impact

Smith was deemed the lead back for the Falcons for Week 16, but he did not fare any better than Brian Hill or Todd Gurley had in the past. Still, Smith has played the best of the group this season amidst a running back room in Atlanta that the Falcons need to blow up in 2021.