By Graham Fritz

Writer/Reporter

In case you missed it, safety Harrison Smith is returning to the Minnesota Vikings on a one-year contract worth $12.25 million. Many fans are torn on Harrison Smith returning to the roster. On one hand, the Vikings are filling a critical position of need on defense while adding a seasoned veteran, but on the other, he’s 37 years old and his production has diminished over the years. Naturally, it is fair to wonder if his return and contract will be worth it.  

Smith’s production undoubtedly took a big step back last year, where he amassed a total of 54 tackles, two interceptions, one sack and three tackles for loss. So why would the Vikings throw $12.25 million at a safety who seemingly has fallen off on paper?  

When you hear coaches and teammates talk about Smith’s impact on the field, it paints a vivid picture as to why he is so important to this defense. Starting inside linebacker Blake Cashman said in an interview that Smith is “one of the smartest guys I think any of us have ever played with.” He spoke about his on-field impact, saying, “He may not be making the play, but he’s taking away two routes just based off his body position; or right at the snap, he understands where the quarterback’s progression is, so he sells like he’s going one way, takes the quarterback off that progression, and then he’s fast to the next one.” This level of experience and awareness is pivotal to this Brian Flores-led defense, which is one of the most difficult defenses to play against in the league.  

Defensive coordinator Brian Flores said last year that “Harrison Smith is one of the best players I’ve ever been around, one of the smartest players I’ve ever been around.” To add to how much he was wanted back, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo said on X that “HC Kevin O’Connell and DC Brian Flores pushed hard for Harrison Smith’s return.”  

It remains to be seen whether paying a 37-year-old safety will pan out or not, but he brings a mental and schematic edge to this defense that aspires to be a top-10 defense in the NFL again.