The Houston Texans have added former Alabama tight end Irv Smith Jr. to their practice squad following the placement of tight end Brevin Jordan on injured reserve. Smith, who had been a free agent since being released by the Kansas City Chiefs on August 27 during their roster cuts, had signed with Kansas City earlier in March.
Jordan, now sidelined with a knee injury, played 67 offensive snaps over Houston’s first two games, while Dalton Schultz led the tight ends with 107 snaps. The Texans’ other tight end, Cade Stover, saw 29 snaps, some of which were at fullback. Houston also has tight end Dalton Keene on their practice squad.
Players on the practice squad participate in all team activities except for game-day action, but NFL teams can elevate up to two practice squad players to the active roster each game. The Texans face the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday at noon CDT in Minneapolis.
Smith had a standout 2018 season at Alabama with 44 catches for 710 yards and seven touchdowns, helping the Crimson Tide to an SEC title and a CFP national championship appearance.
Drafted by the Vikings in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Smith recorded 66 receptions for 676 yards and seven touchdowns in his first two seasons, often sharing duties with Kyle Rudolph. His 2021 season was derailed by a torn meniscus, and in 2022, an ankle injury sidelined him for nine games, though he returned for the playoffs.
After four years with Minnesota, Smith signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, recording 18 catches for 115 yards and one touchdown in 12 games during the 2023 season.
