Buzz has been building for weeks about a potential reunion between the Minnesota Vikings and former All-Pro safety Harrison Smith. The Vikings released Smith in March after 14 seasons with the franchise and appeared to have found his replacement when they signed another former All-Pro safety, Jamal Adams, at the start of training camp. Then Adams tore his right quad in the Vikings' preseason opener against the Giants and was placed on season-ending IR.
Now, Smith returning to Minnesota for at least the 2026 season feels like the most logical move for both sides. And according to head coach Kevin O'Connell, the two remain in close contact and have been talking for weeks. "I've had my kind of weekly, you know, dialogues and discussions with him that have ranged to a lot of different topics," O'Connell said.
"I've talked to him this week, and kind of just continuing to, in addition to all those other fun things to talk about, have some conversations about where he's at, and what he's thinking, and we'll keep you guys updated if there is an update on that. But right now the priority is, obviously, these guys out here today and getting down to 53 [roster spots] and our 16 practice squad spots." More news: Falcons OC Weighs In on Tua Tagovailoa vs Michael Penix QB Battle More news: Packers GM Drops Honest Admission on Tucker Kraft’s Contract Status The Vikings drafted Smith in the first round of the 2012 draft, and he evolved into a six-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro honoree. Across 14 seasons in Minnesota, Smith racked up 1,180 combined tackles, 51 tackles for loss, 45 quarterback hits, 106 pass breakups, 39 interceptions, 13 forced fumbles, and 21.5 sacks.
He ranks among the franchise leaders in most of those categories and was the face of the Vikings defense for over a decade. He may be 37, but he's also a Vikings legend — and he plays a position the team is now looking to fill just two weeks out from the regular season. The fact that he's maintained a close relationship with the head coach is just a bonus.
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