Report: Irv Smith Jr. to have knee surgery, miss start of season

Minnesota Vikings tight end Irv Smith Jr. will undergo knee surgery for a meniscus injury and is expected to be sidelined for at least the start of the regular season, sources told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.

Smith's exact timetable is reportedly yet to be determined.

The 23-year-old was set for his biggest role with the Vikings to date after the team cut longtime starter Kyle Rudolph this offseason.

Smith has racked up 66 catches for 676 yards and seven touchdowns in his two seasons since being selected in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft.

Minnesota will rely on Tyler Conklin, Brandon Dillon, and rookie Zach Davidson during Smith's absence.