Packers HC offers high praise of the returning Harrison Smith
Matt LaFleur praised Harrison Smith's role on the Vikings' defense.
In 2026, Harrison Smith will return to play for the Minnesota Vikings for his 15th season with the team. Despite the fact that he is no longer the same player he used to be, the 37-year-old safety is well-versed in Brian Flores' defensive system and will play a significant role in the Vikings' defense this year. This is not a secret to Matt LaFleur, who is entering his eighth season as the head coach of the Green Bay Packers.
During a recent press conference, LaFleur highly praised Smith, referring to him as "the straw that serves the drink" and emphasizing his crucial pre- and post-snap contributions to the Vikings' defense. He noted that Smith's command and ability to get them in and out of calls are evident throughout the tape.
LaFleur might not have anticipated seeing Smith again after their last meeting in the Week 18 game against the Packers. However, the Vikings had Smith re-signed, and he will now have the opportunity to face LaFleur again and further bolster Minnesota's defense, which was already operating at an elite level at the end of the 2025 season.
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