Smith was listed absent due to illness; his return is not expected to shift the Vikings’ primary plan. He remains a veteran presence in the secondary, but the immediate impact is limited as the team navigates key defensive absences in Van Ginkel and others.

Smith remains the veteran anchor in Minnesota’s secondary, providing leadership and a steady fantasy floor for IDP players. His presence stabilizes the back end, supporting a generally consistent week-to-week defensive profile even as the younger players push for more affiliations and improved seasons.

Smith anchors the Vikings’ defense with veteran savvy, a stabilizing presence amid questions about the unit’s ceiling. His leadership and on-field intelligence are highlighted as a counterbalance to youth and turnover risk, especially if Flores’ system faces a learning curve.

Smith’s veteran presence and potential for increased coverage duties in the wake of Jefferson’s hamstring vacancy signal Minnesota’s intent to stabilize the defense. His leadership could drive a steadier fantasy floor for the Vikings’ IDP units as the season approaches.

Smith’s presence anchors the Vikings’ back-end, guiding younger corners and safeties while shaping defensive communication in joint practices. His leadership translates to a steadier secondary, potentially dampening explosiveness from Patriots receivers and tightening matchup windows for Maye and McCarthy’s progressions.