As the offseason approached, the Minnesota Vikings had significant tasks ahead to improve their roster.
While the team had talent, certain gaps still needed to be filled. A crucial area that requires attention is the secondary. Last season, they had one of the oldest groups in the NFL, with five of their top six players headed for free agency. Cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. will attract the most attention, but it will be interesting to see if any others return as well.
Safety Harrison Smith is the player facing many uncertainties about his future. The 13-year veteran, who was the Vikings’ first-round selection in 2012, may have played his final game, and his contract situation this year adds weight to that possibility. There is a common belief that Smith’s contract has been voided. According to Over The Cap, a leading authority on NFL contracts, his contract was voided prior to the conclusion of the 2024 league year.
Today, Ben Goessling of The Star Tribune questioned earlier reports about Harrison Smith’s contract, revealing that his contract is not voided as previously thought.
This revelation adds a new dimension to the discussion about Smith’s situation. If his contract were indeed voided, the Vikings would have limited options due to the dead cap hits.
Now, the scenario is different for the Vikings. Smith’s minimum salary could indicate one of two possibilities:
- He might accept a reduced salary in 2025 to offset the large signing bonus he received in 2024.
- It would simplify the process of distributing his dead cap hit if he decides to retire.
While uncertainty still surrounds Smith’s future, this new information certainly adds more intrigue.
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