The Houston Texans have made a notable addition to their practice squad, signing former Alabama tight end Irv Smith Jr. Smith, a talented player with NFL experience, brings depth to the Texans’ tight end position and adds versatility to their roster.
Irv Smith Jr. entered the NFL as a second-round draft pick in 2019, selected 50th overall by the Minnesota Vikings after a standout college career at Alabama. During his time with the Crimson Tide, Smith showcased his athleticism and receiving ability, earning a reputation as one of the top tight end prospects in his class. At Alabama, he recorded 58 receptions for 838 yards and 10 touchdowns over two seasons, helping the team win a national championship in 2017.
Smith’s transition to the NFL was promising in his first two seasons with the Vikings. He played in 29 games from 2019-2020, amassing 676 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches against opposing defenses quickly made him a key piece in Minnesota’s offense. However, his development was derailed by injuries. He missed the entire 2021 season due to a torn meniscus, which required surgery and a lengthy recovery period. This setback affected his performance in 2022 as he struggled to regain his previous form.
After being released by the Vikings following the 2022 season, Smith signed a one-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals in hopes of revitalizing his career. Unfortunately, injuries continued to plague him, limiting his opportunities to make an impact.
Now, the Houston Texans are offering Smith another opportunity to contribute at the professional level. By signing him to the practice squad, the Texans are adding a player with high potential and valuable experience to their roster. With his blend of size, speed, and pass-catching ability, Smith could provide a boost to Houston’s offense, especially as they continue to develop young quarterback C.J. Stroud.
For Smith, the signing represents a chance to reset his career and prove that he can stay healthy and contribute meaningfully to an NFL team. If he can regain his pre-injury form, there’s potential for him to make an impact and eventually earn a spot on the active roster.
As the Texans continue to build for the future, adding a player of Smith’s caliber to their practice squad could be a low-risk, high-reward move. With a fresh start in Houston, Irv Smith Jr. will look to make the most of this new opportunity and work his way back to the NFL stage.
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