Here's How Long Irv Smith Jr. Will Be Out After Thumb Surgery

The Vikings announced Tuesday that fourth-year tight end Irv Smith Jr. underwent thumb surgery to address an injury he suffered on Monday and will be sidelined for the rest of preseason. 

Based on the initial reporting but without the aid of video, Pro Football Doc believes that Smith Jr. likely suffered a torn UCL in this thumb and could return in time for Week 1.

Head coach Kevin O'Connell said he's optimistic that Smith Jr. will be available for Week 1. 

Because there is no video of Smith Jr.'s injury it is difficult to pin down the exact diagnosis, but the quick action taken to address the injury and rehab timeline match up.

Recovery from UCL repair generally takes six weeks, which lines up with Minnesota's season opener against the Packers on Sept. 11. 

The UCL, or ulnar collateral ligament, is a stabilizing ligament that aids in catching and holding onto the football.

The injury can sometimes be splinted, but it is difficult to play tight end – especially as a legitimate pass-catching threat – with a splint. 

In his first two seasons, Smith Jr. made 66 receptions for 676 yards and seven touchdowns working as a backup to Kyle Rudolph but is now atop the depth chart. 

The 24-year-old already had injury concerns coming into the season, carrying an SIC score of 84 after missing all of 2021 with a torn meniscus he underwent surgery on last August.