The Houston Texans have made a notable addition to their practice squad by signing former Alabama tight end Irv Smith Jr. This move comes after the team placed tight end Brevin Jordan on injured reserve due to a knee injury. Smith’s arrival could provide a much-needed boost to the Texans’ tight end position, which has seen some challenges early in the season.
Irv Smith Jr. has been out of the NFL since the Kansas City Chiefs released him on August 27 while trimming their preseason roster down to the regular-season limit. Smith had initially joined the Chiefs as a free agent in March, but his stint there was short-lived. With his background at Alabama, where he showcased his talent as a dynamic tight end, Smith has the potential to make an impact for the Texans.
Brevin Jordan, who had been contributing to the Texans’ offense, played 67 snaps over the first two games of the season. His injury leaves a gap in the tight end rotation, particularly as Dalton Schultz has been leading the unit with 107 snaps. The other active tight end, Cade Stover, participated in 29 offensive snaps, although some of these were in a fullback role, indicating the versatility required from tight ends in the current offensive scheme. Houston also has Dalton Keene on their practice squad, adding further depth to the position.
In the NFL, players on the practice squad perform all the duties of those on the active roster, with the primary exception being participation in games. However, teams have the option to elevate up to two practice squad members to active status for each game, which can provide valuable opportunities for players like Smith. This flexibility allows teams to adapt to injuries and other roster changes effectively.
Looking ahead, the Texans are set to face the Minnesota Vikings this Sunday at noon CDT at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. This game presents an opportunity for Houston to showcase their newly acquired talent and adjust their offensive strategy in response to the absence of Jordan.
Smith’s addition could be particularly crucial against the Vikings, a team known for its defensive prowess. The Texans will likely look to integrate Smith into their offensive schemes, utilizing his skills to enhance their passing game and provide quarterback C.J. Stroud with another reliable target. Given Smith’s collegiate success at Alabama, expectations are high that he can step up and make significant contributions as the Texans navigate the challenges of the season.
The Texans have faced an uphill battle in the early weeks of the season, and injuries have not made things easier. With Smith now in the mix, the team is hoping to maintain momentum and capitalize on the strengths of their tight end group. This strategic move illustrates the Texans’ commitment to building a competitive roster and adapting quickly to the changing dynamics of their lineup.
As the Texans prepare for their matchup against the Vikings, all eyes will be on how effectively they can integrate Smith into their game plan. The tight end position is crucial in providing both blocking support and receiving options, and with Jordan sidelined, Smith’s ability to hit the ground running will be essential.
Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how the Texans utilize their tight ends in the upcoming game, especially with the added dimension that Smith brings. The outcome of the game could hinge on how well the Texans adapt to these changes and leverage the skills of their newly signed player.