As the Minnesota Vikings approach the final stretch of the season, three of the team’s longest-tenured players—Harrison Smith, C.J. Ham, and Brian O’Neill—find themselves in pivotal roles as they gear up for potentially their last games with the franchise.
Harrison Smith, the veteran safety drafted in 2012, remains a key player on the team, despite recent discussions about his future. At 36 years old, Smith has played a staggering 204 NFL games, but many analysts speculate that he could retire after this season. With the need for the Vikings’ defense to rejuvenate its roster with younger talent like Jay Ward, the organization may weigh the option to retain Smith for one more season, provided the financials align.
C.J. Ham, who joined the team as an undrafted free agent in 2016, has solidified his status as a prominent fixture on and off the field. Known for his leadership skills and contributions to special teams, the 32-year-old fullback has always brought value to the locker room. Despite the possibility of his contract expiring soon, a modest extension could keep him in Minnesota for another year, considering he could still provide significant contributions for a reasonable salary.
Brian O’Neill, drafted in 2018, has established himself as one of the league’s standout right tackles with his impressive physical attributes and work ethic. Standing at 6’7″ and possessing remarkable speed for his size, O’Neill has become a cornerstone of the offensive line. While there is speculation that he could be cut to free up $19.5 million in cap space, it’s more likely that the Vikings will look to extend his contract to ensure their offensive line remains competitive.
As these veteran players near the end of their contracts, the Vikings face tough decisions regarding their future. However, their experience and leadership continue to be invaluable assets as the team navigates this critical phase of the season. The possibilities for extending their careers with the franchise provide a hopeful outlook for both the players and the organization as they strive for both immediate success and future stability.