NFL news: 5 bold predictions for Minnesota Vikings in 2020

5 bold predictions for Minnesota Vikings in 2020

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 22: Adam Thielen #19 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 22, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – AUGUST 18: DeShawn Shead #35 of the Seattle Seahawks forces Irv Smith #84 of the Minnesota Vikings out of bounds during the preseason game at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 18, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Vikings defeated the Seahawks 25-19. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

4. Irv Smith, Jr will outproduce Kyle Rudolph

The Vikings spend a second round pick on Smith in 2019 so that he could ultimately take over Rudolph’s status as the team’s top tight end. That transition will be complete by the midpoint of the 2020 season.

The loss of Diggs is also going to free up targets for both Smith and Rudolph. The former Alabama star will be in a position to take more of them. Look for him to increase his catch total from last year’s mark of 36 to just over 50 catches in his second professional season.

That will allow him to slightly outperform Rudolph. The gap is going to grow as the season rolls along. By the time the postseason arrives, opponents will need to game plan for Smith as one of Cousins’ favorite targets.

It’s even possible that Smith can emerge as a fringe Pro Bowl candidate this season. Fantasy owners looking for an undervalued tight end don’t need to look any further. Smith has the right combination of talent and opportunity to put up solid numbers.

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