Minnesota Vikings bringing back star safety Harrison Smith
The Minnesota Vikings are bringing back a fan favorite.
The organization announced Saturday evening that hard-hitting veteran safety Harrison Smith will be returning to Minnesota. ESPN's Ian Rapoport says the former Vikings team captain agreed to a one-year deal worth $12.25 million. It'll be his 15th season in the NFL, all with the Vikings.
The 37-year-old, drafted by Minnesota in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, has six Pro Bowl appearances and has made the All-Pro team. He's played 207 games with 203 starts, the third most in team history.
Rapoport says the deal has a max value of $16.25 million with playoff incentives.
The signing brings some stability to the position that has seen several injuries during training camp and the preseason, including 27-year-old Theo Jackson and hybrid defender Jamal Adams.
Last season, Smith tallied 54 total tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble and 10 passes defensed, according to the organization. Over the past 14 seasons, he's recorded 1,180 total tackles and 39 interceptions, including four returned for touchdowns.
The Vikings begin the regular season on Sept. 13 at U.S. Bank Stadium against NFC North rival Green Bay Packers.
