How realistic are Harrison Smith’s chances?
A few years ago, Harrison Smith seemed like a pretty sure thing when it came to his Hall of Fame argument. He has been a staple in Minnesota since entering the league and has been versatile enough to rack up stats all over the defensive box score.
He has been phenomenal for the Vikings while being one of the league’s best safeties for a decade. There was a stretch where Smith was the absolute best safety in the NFL and was an absolute game-wrecker for Mike Zimmer.
Smith’s numbers are remarkable when compared to some of the all-time greats at the position. He has more sacks than Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu. He also has more career touchdowns than Polamaul while trailing him by just three interceptions, which he could easily obtain with another season or two.
Harrison Smith has been far more active in tackles than those two guys as well and they are considered the two best safeties of the era. Adding some more interceptions and turnovers would be excellent for Smith’s resume.
At the end of the day, the numbers do not lie for Harrison Smith. He has been one of the most dynamic defenders in the NFL since arriving in Minnesota. I do think Smith is harmed a bit by his lack of true impact plays.
Now, safety wins are certainly not a stat or a table to stand on but Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu had plenty of key plays in important moments. They also helped propel their teams to Super Bowl titles as leaders of stout defenses.
Harrison Smith simply has not had any signature moments yet in his career and that clock is ticking. If that moment never comes, I think it will be hard to get him into Canton when the time comes.
Chances of Smith reaching the Hall of Fame: 35 percent