Harrison Smith receives praise from Philip Rivers as Vikings' defense adapts
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 2, 2026, 2:46 AM
Last updated Oct 2, 2026
Harrison Smith, veteran safety for the Minnesota Vikings, has returned just before the 2026 NFL season. Smith aims to strengthen the Vikings defense, which is already showing promise early in the season. He missed offseason activities, leading to a gradual increase in his participation, which currently stands at 86 snaps. Former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers highlighted Smith’s intelligence on the field, expressing how he complicates the game for opposing quarterbacks. Vikings teammate Josh Metellus noted positive integration with Smith back, suggesting the defense is evolving under coordinator Brian Flores's guidance.
- •Harrison Smith returned just before the 2026 NFL season.
- •Vikings defense is showing potential as a Super Bowl contender.
- •Smith is currently participating in 86 snaps, gradually increasing his workload.
- •Philip Rivers praised Smith's mental game and disguise tactics.
- •Josh Metellus spoke about the positive integration of Smith into the defense.
- 2:46 AMYahoo Sports — Vikings’ Harrison Smith Gets Strong Words From Philip Rivers
"Minnesota Vikings veteran safety Harrison Smith returned right before the 2026 NFL season. Smith is likely hoping he can be a key piece of a Vikings defense that pushes Minnesota into the playoffs and a potential deep run afterward.It’s only three weeks into the season, but the Vikings defense is already looking like a Super […] The post Vikings’ Harrison Smith Gets Strong Words From Philip Rivers appeared first on HEAVY.
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