Who Should I Start? Irv Smith or Shane Zylstra

Saturday, April 19, 12:22 PM

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the Houston Texans have re-signed former Kansas City Chiefs tight end Irv Smith Jr. to a one-year contract. The financial details have not been disclosed. Smith Jr., a former second-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2019, came into the league with much excitement surrounding him. However, he could never get it going as many injuries hampered his playing time early on. The last time he saw in-game action was back in 2023, and he's only played one full season in his six years in the league. Currently, he'll compete with teammates Brevin Jordan and Cade Stover for playing time behind the incumbent starter, Dalton Schultz. Besides deep dynasty formats, Smith Jr. can likely be left off fantasy rosters.

Tuesday, March 18, 2:24 PM

Free-agent tight end Shane Zylstra is signing back with the Detroit Lions, according to NFL.com. The 2020 undrafted free agent out of Minnesota State began his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings before being released ahead of his rookie campaign. He signed on with Detroit ahead of the 2021 season and has been on and off the active roster ever since. Overall, Zylstra has appeared in 29 games for Detroit (three starts) and has collected 15 receptions for 116 yards and four touchdowns. Even if he makes the team's active roster in 2025, he's a longshot to see significant playing time behind Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright.