Six-Time Pro Bowl S Harrison Smith Returns to Vikings
Smith’s return gives Minnesota a veteran playmaker and keeps one of the NFL’s most productive active defenders in Brian Flores’ secondary.
- On Saturday, the Minnesota Vikings announced safety Harrison Smith will return for his 15th NFL season, signing a one-year contract worth $12.25 million with a maximum value of $16.25 million including playoff incentives.
- After months of contemplating retirement, Smith agreed to re-sign with the Vikings. The team had technically released the veteran in March for salary cap purposes, but kept the possibility of a return open throughout the offseason.
- With 39 career interceptions and 21.5 sacks, Smith ranks among only six defensive backs in league history to record at least 35 interceptions and 20 sacks in his career.
- While joining a defense led by defensive coordinator Brian Flores, it is unlikely Smith will play in the Sept. 13 season opener against the Green Bay Packers due to his late arrival.
- The veteran's 15th season extends the career of the Vikings' longest-tenured player, who ranks among greats like Charles Woodson, Pro Football Hall of Fame member, and Brian Dawkins, Pro Football Hall of Fame member.
27 Articles
27 Articles
Vikings safety Harrison Smith puts retirement on hold to come back for a 15th season
EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith is coming back for a 15th season. The Vikings announced Saturday that they had agreed to terms on a deal with the six-time Pro Bowl selection who has spent his entire career in Minnesota. Terms weren’t disclosed. Smith had indicated at the end of last season that he wasn’t sure whether he would retire or play again in 2026, and his future was the subject of speculation thoughout the off…
Vikings bring Harrison Smith back on one-year deal
Harrison Smith has agreed to return to the Minnesota Vikings for a 15th season, ending months of uncertainty surrounding one of the franchise's most accomplished defenders. The 37-year-old safety can earn up to $16.25 million on a one-year contract that carries a base value of $12.25 million. Minnesota had prepared for the possibility that Smith would retire. The team staged what looked like a farewell at the end of last season, and his previous…
Harrison Smith Makes Retirement U-Turn As Vikings Veteran Returns for 15th NFL Season
In 2024, when Harrison Smith was asked about his retirement, he made it clear that he doesn’t want any send-off or any tribute. But in January, before the Minnesota Vikings wrapped up their final regular-season game against the Green Bay Packers, head coach Kevin O’Connell called for a timeout with a little over three minutes […]
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