Harrison Smith, who confesses to feeling jittery on the first tee when golfing solo, has plans to hit the links this week at the NFLPA Classic. However, he’s not ready to make golf a daily retirement ritual just yet. During a conversation with Kay Adams at El Camaleon Golf Course in Mayakoba, Mexico, the Vikings safety, now entering his 14th season, opened up about his thoughts on retirement.
Adams asked if he’s started thinking about hanging up his cleats. “Yeah, for sure,” Smith replied. “I’ve been thinking about it for years. There’s a day coming when I’ll be done, and it’s creeping closer every day.”
Adams pushed back, suggesting he’s in a bind: “I don’t think it’s that close. You want a Super Bowl ring—you deserve one. That’s what you’re chasing, and your team’s so close. I don’t see you stepping away from the Vikings until you get it.”
Smith acknowledged the allure of a championship but emphasized his broader perspective. “I like our free agency moves. We’ve got a solid core, great coaching, and strong leadership, so I wanted to stick around for it,” he said. “A ring is definitely something I’m after, but the journey matters too—enjoying the people I’m with, staying productive, and guiding the younger guys.
If I just chased a ring like they do in basketball, it wouldn’t mean as much to me now. I’m not dismissing it, but it wouldn’t feel the same.”
The discussion also touched on Aaron Rodgers, whose name has swirled in Vikings rumors. Smith sidestepped speculation about Minnesota’s interest but didn’t hold back on his admiration for the 41-year-old quarterback. “I’ve faced him my whole career—he’s my favorite to watch and my least favorite to defend because he’s so hard to stop,” Smith said. “Some of his throws leave me thinking, ‘What are we supposed to do about that?’ I’m not here to guess about rumors, but I’ve got huge respect for his skills.” As for whether Rodgers might retire soon, Smith added, “I think he’s still got some juice left.”
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