NFL Rumors: Vikings Plan to Activate TE Smith Jr. From IR

The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly activating their tight end Irv Smith Jr. from injured reserve for Week 18 against the Chicago Bears, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. 

Smith Jr., who has been sidelined since late October with a high ankle sprain, could amplify Minnesota offensively with the playoffs on the horizon and as they enter Week 18 coming off a brutal 41-17 loss last week against the Packers.  

The former second-rounder in 2019 caught 22 receptions for 168 yards, and two touchdowns in his 2022-23 stint before his unfortunate injury earlier this season. 

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