Smith (knee) didn't run routes at Tuesday's offseason practice, but he expects to be a full participant in training camp this summer, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: Smith is limited in his on-field work, three weeks after Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said the team would "be smart" about the tight end's spring workload. Smith missed the entire 2021 campaign with a meniscus injury, but it sounds like he's a big part of the plan for 2022 under a new coaching staff, especially after fellow tight end Tyler Conklin signed with the Jets earlier this offseason. O'Connell remained optimistic Tuesday, noting that Smith remains "right on schedule" in the rehab process, per Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com.
Irv Smith Won't be rushed back
Coach Kevin O'Connell said Tuesday that the Vikings are "going to be smart" with Smith (knee) during spring practices, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Smith may not handle many on-field reps during spring activities, but O'Connell said "there's no reason why he can't hit the ground running from a mental perspective." After missing the entire 2021 season due to a meniscus injury, for which he had to undergo surgery, Smith appears primed to headline Minnesota's tight end room for the 2022 campaign, as long as he can indeed return to full health. With Tyler Conklin having moved on to the Jets, only depth options Johnny Mundt (knee), Ben Ellefson and Zach Davidson can currently offer competition for the top TE gig, which may indicate confidence from the Vikings regarding Smith's recovery trajectory.
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