Why Did Harrison Smith Decide to Return to the Vikings?
Smith returns after a summer away, saying he still has more to give and wants to help Minnesota’s younger safeties.
- Harrison Smith returned to practice Wednesday at TCO Performance Center for his 15th season with the Minnesota Vikings, signing a one-year deal worth $12.25 million with $4 million in playoff incentives.
- Smith decided to return because he feels he has "a little more to give" to the team, aiming to mentor younger safeties while this potentially marks his final season.
- Last season, Smith played 793 snaps with a 68.9 defensive grade and allowed an 81.0 passer rating while contributing 42 solo tackles and surrendering 21 receptions in coverage.
- Head coach Kevin OConnell and defensive coordinator Brian Flores welcomed Smith back, with OConnell saying "We get better as a team when we have that guy in our building."
- Smith is preparing for the Sept. 13 game against the Green Bay Packers; although he missed training camp, he told reporters he is "up for whatever" to help the team win.
23 Articles
23 Articles
Harrison Smith: I kind of knew I'd be back the whole time
Vikings fans saluted Harrison Smith's entire career when he walked off the field at the end of Week 18 last season, but thoughts that it was the final time the safety would be on the field were premature.
Harrison Smith Makes Surprising Admission About Vikings Reunion
The Minnesota Vikings brought back long-time veteran safety Harrison Smith last week after the unfortunate, season-ending injury to linebacker/safety Jamal Adams. It is a reunion that many were unsure would ultimately happen, but Smith recently revealed he had it on his agenda all along. “I think…
Harrison Smith Addresses Vikings Return
This past weekend, Harrison Smith worked out an agreement to play for the Vikings in 2026. The deal was finalized after training camp, but team and player remained in contact with one another throughout the offseason in this case. Smith was released in a procedural move this spring, but the 37-year-old never made a retirement announcement. Instead, […]
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