Brian Flores addresses absence of Harrison Smith at Vikings training camp
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 1, 2026, 12:55 AM
Last updated Aug 1, 2026
During the start of training camp on August 1, 2026, Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores expressed his difficulty in coping with the absence of veteran safety Harrison Smith, who has been a key player since 2012. Smith, now unsigned, is not present at camp, impacting the team's communication and leadership on defense. Flores noted that the team is trying to fill the leadership void left by Smith. While there is speculation about a potential return once training camp concludes, no updates have confirmed his status. Vikings fans remain anxious regarding Smith's future.
- •Brian Flores misses Harrison Smith's leadership at training camp.
- •Smith, 37, is currently unsigned and not attending camp.
- •Flores aims to replicate Smith's communication skills among players.
- •Smith's return after camp remains uncertain, with no recent updates.
- •Vikings' defense faces challenges without their veteran safety.
- 12:55 AMYahoo Sports — Vikings DC still hasn't 'gotten over' Harrison Smith's absence
"Brian Flores leaned on Harrison Smith for several years to run his defense and now he isn't around and the defensive coordinator can't believe it.
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