Top 10 Minnesota Vikings of 2022: Where does Justin Jefferson rank?

No. 3: Harrison Smith – S

Harrison Smith is the gift that keeps on giving for Vikings fans, players, and coaches alike. When he received a lucrative contract extension last offseason, it was met with a lot of hesitation given his age for a safety.

While he is still under contract through 2025 at a hefty price, Smith has yet to show any signs of slowing down.

In 2021, Smith ranked in the top 10 among safeties in PFF overall grade, tackling grade, and coverage grade. He was one of seven safeties who played at least 50 percent of his team’s defensive snaps to not allow a touchdown while in coverage.

Smith also has tremendous versatility, playing over 100 snaps along the defensive line, in the box, at free safety, and in the slot. Ed Donatell will have a field day game planning how to unleash Smith against opposing offenses.

He has made six Pro Bowls and he’s been a First and Second-Team All-Pro, yet he still finds a way to be underrated around the league. With the way Smith carries himself, though, He probably prefers it that way. At least everyone in Minnesota knows his importance.