Irv Smith Jr.

I'm not certain how many people know Smith saw just one fewer target than his teammate Kyle Rudolph in 2019, but that was the case. The difference was their touchdowns, as Rudolph scored six times compared to Smith's two touchdowns. Will that change in 2020? Well, it wasn't due to lack of opportunity, as Smith saw 10 targets in the red zone compared to Rudolph's 11 targets. Touchdowns are a very fickle thing and they can flip-flop this year. Smith is the one ascending up, while Rudolph is moving towards the end of his tenure.

Irv Smith to have an expanded role in 2020?

Courtney Cronin of ESPN writes that Vikings tight end Irv Smith could have an expanded role in 2020.

Fantasy Impact

The rookie impressed at times last season, hauling in 36 passes for 311 yards and two touchdowns while playing in all 16 games. Stefon Diggs is no longer with the Vikings, which could open up targets for the 21-year-old tight end. However, just keep in mind that for now Smith is still behind Kyle Rudolph on the team's depth chart.