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Harrison Smith staying with Minnesota Vikings on restructured contract

Mixed emotions from Vikings fans on Kirk Cousins news
Mixed emotions from Vikings fans on Kirk Cousins news 03:19

MINNEAPOLIS —  Harrison Smith, the Vikings' longest-tenured player, is staying with the franchise for another season.

The team announced Wednesday that Smith has restructured his contract. He was rumored to be a candidate for release as the Vikings seek additional cap space.

MORE: Vikings 2024 free agency tracker: Follow the latest moves and storylines

The Vikings drafted Smith 29th overall in 2012. He's started 175 games for the team and has 34 career interceptions, along with 19.5 sacks and 12 forced fumbles.

Minnesota Vikings v Washington Commanders
Harrison Smith #22 of the Minnesota Vikings returns an interception against the Washington Commanders during the second half of the game at FedExField on November 6, 2022 in Landover, Maryland. Scott Taetsch / Getty Images

In the 2023 season, Smith started all 17 games and totaled 93 tackles and 3.0 sacks.

Smith is a six-time Pro-Bowler and was named First-Team All-Pro by The Associated Press in 2017.

The Vikings lost two of their most notable players heading into free agency this offseason. Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is heading to the Atlanta Falcons on a four-year deal, per his agent. Dominant pass rusher Danielle Hunter is reportedly signing with the Houston Texans.

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