The Viking Age
FanSided

5 most independent players on the 2020 Minnesota Vikings roster

By Nik Edlund

CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 15: Middle linebacker Eric Kendricks #54 of the Minnesota Vikings forces a fumble by running back Austin Ekeler #30 of the Los Angeles Chargers allowing defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo #95 of the Minnesota Vikings to grab the ball and run for a touchdown in the second quarter of the game at Dignity Health Sports Park on December 15, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 15: Middle linebacker Eric Kendricks #54 of the Minnesota Vikings forces a fumble by running back Austin Ekeler #30 of the Los Angeles Chargers allowing defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo #95 of the Minnesota Vikings to grab the ball and run for a touchdown in the second quarter of the game at Dignity Health Sports Park on December 15, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images) /
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Harrison Smith #22 of the Minnesota Vikings. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
Harrison Smith #22 of the Minnesota Vikings. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

S Harrison Smith

Harrison Smith is the epitome of an independent player on the Minnesota Vikings. For years he’s played next to a turnstile of different safeties. He’s had guys like Jamarca Sanford, Robert Blanton, Andrew Sendejo, and finally, Anthony Harris all start opposite him. While Harris has developed into an exceptional player, the rest were average at best.

Despite his lack of a running mate, Harrison Smith has been one of the best safeties in the NFL. His numbers are truly staggering with 658 career tackles, with 503 of those being solo. He’s also recorded 23 career interceptions, 56 pass breakups, forced 7 fumbles, and scored 4 touchdowns. He’s a big-time playmaker who despite being 31 years old, shows no signs of slowing down.

Smith has used his combination of great speed, and instincts to be in the right place at the right time. He not only has great ball skills but can come up and play near the line of scrimmage. He’s been a fantastic blitzer and he has excelled in the various roles Mike Zimmer has used him in.

Vikings’ fans should appreciate what they have with Harrison Smith as he’s entering the twilight seasons of his career. It’s been a great ride for the Hitman and despite not always having a quality starter lining up next to him, he’s been very productive.

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