Andrew Buller-Russ
The Minnesota Vikings had no choice but to make tough decisions heading into an offseason where they were $40 million over the 2026 salary cap. Several Pro Bowl veterans have been released from the team, including the pair of defensive tackles signed in free agency last offseason, Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. But the exodus doesn’t end there.
On Wednesday, the Vikings also surprisingly released Harrison Smith from the team too. The potential future Hall of Fame safety is expected to either retire after 14 NFL seasons or re-sign in Minnesota at an even lower rate.
He’s being processed as a post-June 1 cap casualty which frees up roughly $1.3 million in cap space (exactly what’s needed to sign Kyler Murray), but the Vikings would “welcome his return,” per Matthew Coller. Right now, he won’t take up a roster spot, but his absence leaves a heavy void at the safety position next to Josh Metellus in Minnesota.
The Vikings were always anticipating a possible retirement by Smith this offseason, and this may be the precursor to an eventual announcement. For now, the 37-year-old gets some time to decide whether he wants to boost his Hall of Fame resume or begin the next phase in his life, one that hopefully leads to fewer bumps and bruises.
Related: Minnesota Vikings Free Agency: Ranking 10 Best QBs Available
