Facing what is likely the final full month of his NFL career, Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith was rightfully emotional after a special day for the 14th-year veteran.
The NFL’s active leader in interceptions, Smith closed down on a route and snared his 38th career interception in the third quarter of a 31-0 shutout of the Washington Commanders on Sunday, December 7.
It’s been a long time coming for Smith, who turns 37 in February. It was his first interception of the season for a Vikings defense that has not been advantageous, ranking 25th in takeaways entering Week 14.
Smith acknowledged that the 2025 season, the final year of his contract, hasn’t lived up to expectations with the Vikings virtually eliminated from the postseason.
No matter.
The elder statesman of the Vikings defense found plenty to play for on Sunday — as did his teammates, who together notched the franchise’s third shutout win since 1993.
“You can look at the standings and the reality of things,” Smith said in a postgame locker room interview. “But [Kevin O’Connell’s] message was basically, ‘What would your high school version of yourself think about just playing today?’
“I think that hit home for a lot of guys. Getting a chance to play in the NFL is-,” Smith paused, “Fun. So make it fun. This is what we do.”
Smith was asked about the extra emotions for what was just another December football game.
“Umm, I’ve played football a long time,” he nodded with a smirk.
Harrison Smith Reflects on Vikings Past After Securing Interception With Anthony Barr in Attendance
This week was nostalgic for Smith, who saw longtime teammate Anthony Barr sound the Gjallarhorn before Sunday’s game.
With Barr in attendance, Smith had a feeling he would recapture some of his former glory.
“That’s my guy. Those were – playing with him [was] some of the best times,” Smith said, per Vikings.com. “I actually thought I was going to get a pick.
“It’s been a while, so just getting your hands on the ball, no matter what the situation is, it’s just fun,” Smith added.
Harrison Smith Praises JJ McCarthy After Turnaround Performance
After a troubling start to J.J. McCarthy’s career, the young quarterback put forth a performance that could be a stepping stone for his career.
McCarthy showed command of the offense in a game manager role, completing 16 of 23 passes for 163 yards and three touchdowns for a career-high 129.2 passer rating.
“He did a great job, just standing in there, delivering throws, making things happen with his feet,” Smith said. “You could tell, he looked – in my opinion – he looked his most comfortable of the year. It’s definitely a big step in the right direction.”
How Does Harrison Smith Rank in Vikings History?
Smith’s 38th interception was monumental for the future Hall of Fame candidate as he moved into fourth place in franchise history.
Smith paid respect to Joey Browner after surpassing the Vikings legend on Sunday.
“He was a guy who helped define what it is to be a safety,” Smith said of Browner. “We probably had, kind of, similar games – pretty physical guys, but also could turn the ball over well. Been fortunate enough to talk to him. Just an honor to be mentioned amongst him.”
Smith has four more games left on the season and has a chance to surpass Ed Sharockman’s record of 40 interceptions, which ranks third in franchise history.
Paul Krause (1968-79) and Bobby Bryant (1968-80) lead the way with 53 and 51 interceptions, respectively.
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