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.

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.