NFL Rumors: Steelers shuffle LBs, Vikings about-face, Jalen Carter legal update

NFL Rumors: Vikings switch it up and are keeping Harrison Smith

Speaking of Brian Flores, his arrival in Minnesota has signaled wholesale changes for the Vikings defense as there have been numerous big-name cuts, some nice signings to help regroup on that side of the ball, and surely some changes in the building as well with the culture. One big cut seemed like it was going to be longtime safety Harrison Smith.

Smith, at 34 years old, was slated to have a $19.1 million cap hit and, despite him still performing at a high level, that was a hard number to swallow. Thus, he seemed like he could be on his way out. Instead, though, the Vikings pulled an ol’ switcheroo.

On Thursday, it was reported by Vikings insider Ben Gosseling that Smith is staying in Minnesota, having restructured his deal with the franchise and will only be paid up to $8 million in the 2023 season with an incentive-laden contract.

Despite the undeniable need to switch it up with this defense with how things had been trending, the fact of the matter is that there needs to be some stability. Smith is a great player to provide that given his long tenure in Minnesota, leadership on and off the field, and his play still being at a nice level that warrants him being worthwhile to keep around.

All told, it’s simply good for the Vikings that Smith isn’t going anywhere.