Matt LaFleur praises Harrison Smith as Vikings defensive leader

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur expressed his respect for Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith ahead of the upcoming NFL season. Smith, who is entering his 15th professional season at age 37, remains a central figure in the Vikings defensive scheme led by Brian Flores. LaFleur highlighted the veteran's ability to coordinate calls and influence the field, describing him as the essential component of the Minnesota defense. Although the safety received a tribute during the Week 18 matchup last year against Green Bay, he recently reached an agreement to return to Minnesota. Smith will continue his career with the Vikings, maintaining his role in a defense that performed at a high level toward the end of the previous season.

• 11:21 PMYahoo Sports — Packers HC offers high praise of the returning Harrison Smith