Vikings TE Smith likely done for season after knee surgery

By DAVE CAMPBELL
AP Pro Football Writer

EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings are bracing for a season-long absence for on-the-rise tight end Irv Smith Jr., after knee surgery for a torn meniscus. Smith had the procedure done by team physician Dr. Christopher Larson. He was injured last week. Smith was in line for a breakout year, his third in the NFL. He had 365 yards and five touchdowns in 13 games last season. Smith had a full repair of the meniscus. That usually means a minimum four-month recovery. The Vikings acquired tight end Chris Herndon in a trade with the New York Jets to help reinforce the position.