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Former Tide star Irv Smith Jr. signs contract with Minnesota Vikings

Matthew Emmons - USA TODAY Sports

He’s the highest drafted rookie of 2019 to sign a contract. 

For former University of Alabama tight end Irv Smith, Jr., he put pen to paper on Thursday in finalizing his four-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings. News came from Adam Schefter of ESPN and per Spotrac, Smith’s deal is worth $5.78 million ($2.98 million guaranteed) with a $2.23 million signing bonus. 

The 6-foot-2, 242-pounder turned in a contribution last season that went a long way into quarterback Tua Tagovailoa being recognized as an All-American and Heisman finalist. 

RELATED: Durability of Alabama QB Tua Tagovailoa to be monitored next season

He recorded 710 yards receiving on 44 catches with seven touchdowns – setting a single-season school record for scores by a tight end. Smith averaged 16+ yards per catch and had a strong showing at the NFL Scouting Combine.

He posted a 40-time of 4.63 seconds and executed the gauntlet drill with ease. Some NFL scouts are concerned about his abilities as an in-line blocker; however, Minnesota will develop him in that area — as long he’s willing to help in the run game. 

Smith is also signed to Sports Trust Advisors, a full-service football agency that has been branding and representing elite NFL players since 1987. Sports Trust is representing quite a few former Crimson Tide stars, including Anthony Averett, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Kenyan Drake, Dont’a Hightower, Eddie Jackson, Shaun Dion Hamilton and Dalvin Tomlinson.  

Smith was the Vikings’ second pick at No. 50 overall and he’s ready to work.  

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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.

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Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 10+ years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

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