For the first time since 2012, Minnesota Vikings training camp will open without Harrison Smith holding down a roster spot. That leaves an empty locker, an unused No. 22 and real defensive snaps for third-round rookie Jakobe Thomas, plus a chance to inherit some of the pre-snap responsibility Smith handled almost automatically.
Thomas brings production from four college seasons at Middle Tennessee, Tennessee and Miami. He totaled 206 tackles, nine interceptions, 20 pass breakups and 4.5 sacks. His lone Miami season produced career highs of 76 tackles, five picks, six pass breakups and 3.5 sacks, which gave Brian Flores plenty to study.
Flores, of course, has veterans ahead of Thomas who know his defense. Josh Metellus supplies the loud voice and system command, while Theo Jackson played 530 defensive snaps last season and Jay Ward logged 248. Thomas won’t walk into Smith’s old job by seniority, but Minnesota’s frequent three-safety packages give him a workable route onto the field.
Jakobe Thomas has a clear path into Brian Flores’ Minnesota Vikings defense
Thomas was the quarterback of Miami’s defense, which should matter in a scheme built on disguise. Flores asks his defensive backs to disguise coverages, creep toward the line and communicate through late adjustments. Thomas’ quickest route to playing time will be proving he can keep everyone aligned.
Smith had a knack for preventing mistakes before the ball was snapped. His experience allowed him to adjust coverages, redirect teammates and recognize when an offense had found an opening. Thomas didn't arrive in Eagan with those answers, and Minnesota shouldn’t expect him to.
Kevin O’Connell recently spoke with Smith and plans to continue that dialogue, leaving open the possibility of a 15th season. A return could only help Thomas, who’d gain direct access to the defender whose pre-snap role he’s learning.
To start, though, Thomas has a more digestible assignment. He needs to tackle cleanly, attack the football and prove teammates can rely on his calls. His five interceptions in 2025 tied for seventh in the FBS, while two forced fumbles and two recoveries showed his nose for disruption wasn’t limited to passes thrown nearby.
Camp should reveal whether those instincts translate when Flores adds motion, pressure checks and NFL tempo. Jackson and Ward have earned their head start, and Metellus remains the movable piece who makes the safety rotation unusual. Thomas only needs enough dependable reps to make a third safety package difficult to build without him.
Minnesota also signed undrafted safety Jacob Thomas, who flashed during the offseason program. The public-address crew may just want one extra rehearsal before the preseason opener.
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