Vikings Fans Eagerly Await Return of Safety Harrison Smith to Starting Lineup
Smith Nearing Full Game Workload: Insights from Vikings’ Coach O’Connell
Smith is close to regaining a regular workload, according to Coach O’Connell. This change is expected to provide the Vikings with greater versatility, particularly involving player Josh Metellus. The adjustments allow players to excel in impactful roles, enhancing team dynamics and performance.
Smith’s Absence and Return: A Historical Perspective
Smith’s absence from recent games has been notable, with only three non-starts in his career—the latest being the Vikings’ last two games and one back in 2013 due to a turf toe injury. Despite recent sidelining, defensive coordinator Brian Flores is confident in Smith’s current role, stating it aligns with team objectives. Meanwhile, Metellus and safety Theo Jackson have been demonstrating strong performances.
Family Perspective and Professional Insights from Flores
Even within Flores’ family, sons Miles and Max have been curious about Smith’s recent limited playtime. As Flores explained, returning to the NFL requires careful preparation after any downtime. “What they don’t see is the preparation that goes into getting ready for NFL games and an NFL season, and he missed a big chunk. Without that, we’ve got to be smart about our usage with him,” Flores commented.
Teammates Reflect on Smith’s Impact
Metellus shared that starting games without Smith, fondly referred to as “22,” has been an unusual experience. His presence on the field has been a significant component for the team, underscoring his influential role when active.
