Harrison Smith looked like he had already played his final snap for the Minnesota Vikings. They even gave their longtime safety what appeared to be a farewell last season, only for Smith to leave the door open without ever officially announcing retirement.
Now, that door has swung wide open, and the "Hitman" is coming back for another season, and his return suddenly gives the Vikings some much-needed experience in a secondary that has taken several hits this offseason.
Dec 25, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith (22) celebrates after catching an interception against the Detroit Lions in the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
The Vikings are bringing Smith back for his 15th NFL season on a one-year contract worth $12.25 million, with the deal capable of reaching $16.25 million through incentives, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo. The agreement comes just days before Minnesota opens the regular season against the Green Bay Packers, turning what looked like the end of Smith's career into one more run in purple.
The timing could hardly be better for the Vikings. Their safety room has been battered throughout training camp. Theo Jackson is recovering from a leg injury, third-round rookie Jakobe Thomas spent some time on the bench because of his back problem, and Jamal Adams got a season-ending quadriceps injury. Josh Metellus and Jay Ward had to carry the load, but now, the Vikings needed someone more experienced.
#season #looked #like
Now, that door has swung wide open, and the "Hitman" is coming back for another season, and his return suddenly gives the Vikings some much-needed experience in a secondary that has taken several hits this offseason.
Dec 25, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith (22) celebrates after catching an interception against the Detroit Lions in the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
The Vikings are bringing Smith back for his 15th NFL season on a one-year contract worth $12.25 million, with the deal capable of reaching $16.25 million through incentives, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo. The agreement comes just days before Minnesota opens the regular season against the Green Bay Packers, turning what looked like the end of Smith's career into one more run in purple.
The timing could hardly be better for the Vikings. Their safety room has been battered throughout training camp. Theo Jackson is recovering from a leg injury, third-round rookie Jakobe Thomas spent some time on the bench because of his back problem, and Jamal Adams got a season-ending quadriceps injury. Josh Metellus and Jay Ward had to carry the load, but now, the Vikings needed someone more experienced.
#season #looked #like
9 days ago
