MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — For the Minnesota Vikings, the offseason has once again brought a familiar question: Will Harrison Smith return or retire? The six-time Pro Bowl safety has committed to a 14th NFL season, bringing leadership and stability to a secondary that continues to evolve. Despite being 36, Smith remains a dependable starter, leaning on his elite football IQ to offset any decline in athleticism. Still, the team knows a succession plan is needed — and soon.
This year’s NFL Draft could mark the turning point. With Smith’s longtime running mate Cam Bynum departing in free agency, the Vikings may be eyeing his long-term replacement. “There will come a day when Harrison isn’t back,” GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah admitted. “I’m not looking forward to it. He’s meant so much to this team.”
In the meantime, the Vikings have extended Theo Jackson, showing faith in his potential to fill Bynum’s role. Josh Metellus, a versatile defender and favorite of defensive coordinator Brian Flores, also remains in the mix. But holding the 24th overall pick, Minnesota could target one of the draft’s top two safeties — Nick Emmanwori (South Carolina) or Malaki Starks (Georgia). While this year’s safety class is considered the weakest among 11 positions, one of these standout SEC products may be available when the Vikings are on the clock Thursday night.
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