Harrison Smith

Harrison Smith's Biography

Harrison Smith, born on the 2nd of February in 1989, is recognized as one of the most accomplished safeties in the National Football League (NFL). With a career that saw him rise through the ranks with undeniable talent and perseverance, Smith has earned the admiration and respect of peers, fans, and critics alike.

Smith’s journey to the NFL began in Knoxville Catholic High School, Tennessee, where he excelled in multiple sports. His exceptional talent was evident in his final year of high school, where he clocked 1,340 yards of rushing alongside an impressive 19 touchdowns. Having overshadowed his peers, Smith was acknowledged as Tennessee’s Gatorade Football Player of the Year in 2006. However, his prowess was not limited to the football field. Smith also excelled in basketball and track events, especially as a jumper.

When it came to college, Smith had the choice among numerous prestigious institutes, but he chose the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, primarily for their renowned sports program. It was during his tenure here that Smith honed his football skills, specifically as a safety and linebacker. Smith’s performance for the Fighting Irish made him a first-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, getting selected 29th overall by the Minnesota Vikings.

Smith’s NFL journey began in earnest with the Minnesota Vikings in 2012. Over the years, he demonstrated his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport, which reflected in his performance statistics. By 2017, Pro Football Focus rated Smith as the NFL’s third-best player, also declaring his season grade of 98.8 as the highest in the league’s history for safety. This extraordinary performance led to Smith’s inclusion in his third consecutive Pro Bowl in 2018. It was the same year he received his first nomination for the All-Pro first team.

Smith’s prowess on the field is not limited to defense. During his senior year in high school, he distinguished himself on offense with 23 successful passes for 453 yards, resulting in six touchdowns. Scouts also noted his capacities on defense, including 61 tackles, two interceptions, and two caused fumbles. A testament to his all-around athleticism, Smith’s stint as a jumper in track events saw him winning state meets and setting career-best records.

Smith’s progression from high school to college saw him redshirt in his freshman year in 2007, only to firmly establish himself as a standout player by 2008. During these formative years, Smith honed his skills as a linebacker and strong safety, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt and perform.

Smith’s potential was recognized ahead of the 2012 NFL Draft. Most analysts projected him as a first-round pick, ranking him as the second-best strong safety after Alabama’s Mark Barron. The Minnesota Vikings confirmed these predictions by selecting him in the first round, adding him to their roster for $7.13 million over four years, including $5.78 million in guaranteed money.

His time at the Vikings has seen some great career highs. With each season, Smith improved his game, learning from his experiences and nurturing his natural talent. His tenure has been dotted with inspiring performances against numerous teams, demonstrating his abilities as a formidable safety.

Throughout his career, Smith has consistently received positive reviews for his intelligence, consistency, and athletic abilities. His knack for recognizing plays, consistent production, and noteworthy tackling skills have established him as an essential asset to the Vikings.

Smith has also been recognized for his achievements outside the regular season. As an alternate for the injured Earl Thomas, Smith played his first Pro Bowl in 2016. The following year saw him get selected once again, this time as a first-team member.

Despite the accolades and recognition, Smith never rested on his laurels. His 2017 season was a testament to his relentless pursuit for excellence. Apart from earning the title of third-best player in the NFL by Pro Football Focus, he was nominated for NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Smith’s exceptional performance led to his inclusion in his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport.

Today, Smith’s consistent performance and indomitable spirit have made him one of the most respected safety in the NFL. From his beginnings as a keen athlete in Knoxville to his current status as an accomplished professional footballer, Smith’s journey is characterized by sheer talent, indomitable spirit, and a steadfast commitment to his chosen sport. His legacy in the NFL continues to inspire aspiring players, with his pursuit of personal excellence setting a benchmark for others to follow.