Outlook for Harrison Smith
By: Jake Rajala
The former long-time Minnesota Viking, Harrison Smith, is a free agent. It’s unclear if he will return to the Vikings, join a Super Bowl contender in 2026, or retire. Smith wasn’t a tackling machine last season, but he did have 10 pass deflections, a couple of interceptions, and a few tackles for loss. Of course, he would like to be a future Hall of Famer, too.
If Smith doesn’t return, I expect him to join one of the following teams.
Los Angeles Rams
The LA Rams are putting together a dream team. They have Myles Garrett, Trent McDuffie, and Byron Young on defense. Smith can start over Kam Curl or Kamren Kitchens. I’d love to see them add a physical safety in Smith and try to win their second Super Bowl since 2022.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The idea of putting Jalen Ramsey and Smith in the same secondary is quite appealing. The Steelers can’t take the pedal off the gas this offseason. The Ravens added Trey Hendrickson. It’s the Steelers turn to bring in another potent player. The Steelers were 29th in passing YPG last season, too. Smith won’t be Troy Polamalu, but he can make a lot of magic happen.
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints lost Tyrann Mathieu last year and then clot corner Alontae Taylor recently. The Saints also lost the veteran Demario Davis and there’s a strong chance that the 36 year old Cameron Jordan doesn’t return. Hence, the Saints need another veteran.
Kansas City Chiefs
This one is a slam dunk. The Chiefs pass defense isn’t ready to take down Josh Allen or Joe Burrow right now. They need more help. The Chiefs have Chris Jones up front. It’s time to get Smith for the back-end. Smith doesn’t need to play deep safety at this stage in his career.
Cincinnati Bengals
Cincy is heading in a less than admirable direction. They ranked 26th in passing YPG allowed last season. They already lost their elite pass rusher in Trey Hendrickson. Jordan Battle is a modest CB. Although, I’d like to see an upgrade over Bryan Cook. Smith could lift up those around him.
Baltimore Ravens
I noted the Steelers were 29th in passing YPG allowed last season. Well, the Ravens were 30th in passing YPG allowed. The 2025 first round pick Malaki Starks still needs to develop at safety. I’d love to see Smith start alongside Kyle Hamilton and Marlon Huhmprey.
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