Detroit Lakes, MN (KDLM) – The Minnesota Vikings have brought back veteran safety Harrison Smith for a 15th season, making the signing official Tuesday and clearing two roster spots to do it.
Smith agreed to a one-year deal over the weekend and rejoined the team this week. The contract is worth $12.25 million and can reach $16.25 million with incentives. The 37-year-old has spent his entire career in Minnesota since the Vikings took him in the first round of the 2012 draft out of Notre Dame. He played 15 games last season and finished with 54 total tackles, two interceptions, one sack, one forced fumble and 10 pass breakups.
Smith was not on a roster at any point during the offseason, and it is not clear how quickly he will step back into his usual role in the secondary.
To make room on the 53-man roster, the Vikings placed tight end Ben Yurosek on injured reserve. Yurosek, who is in his second season, caught two passes for 14 yards in 12 games last year. He can be designated to return after missing four games, and the Star Tribune reported the injury is not expected to be a long-term issue.
The Vikings also released safety Kahlef Hailassie from the practice squad.
Minnesota opens the regular season Sunday against Green Bay.
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