5 players the Vikings can’t afford to lose to injury in 2019

Harrison Smith – S

Harrison Smith is simply one of the best safeties in the entire NFL. If the Vikings were to lose him for a lengthy part of the 2019 season, it would seriously hinder their chances of being a contender in the NFC.

Smith does so many things well. He can cover, he can support against the run, and he can rush the passer. When the team needs a game-changing play, chances are it’s No. 22 making it happen. He’s a true playmaker and he really can’t be replaced.

If Smith were to get hurt, Minnesota could slide Anthony Harris to free safety and then bump Jayron Kearse to strong safety. This wouldn’t be catastrophic, but it would be a major drop off from having the Hitman roaming the Vikings’ secondary.

Harris did have a great season in 2018, but he’d be playing a new spot with new responsibilities and there would be a period of adjustment. Kearse is a solid backup and situational player. But the jury is out on how he’d fare as a full-time starter at strong safety.

With Smith out of Minnesota’s secondary with an injury, the defense would be very susceptible and opposing offenses would test the two youngsters. Maybe Harris and Kearse would be up for the challenge, but the outcome would likely be much worse for the Vikings without Smith on the field.