Vikings’ Harrison Smith Fined $45K for Helmet Hit in Wild Card Loss
Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith has been slapped with a $45,020 fine for “impermissible use of the helmet” following a controversial hit during the wild card matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.
The incident occurred in the first quarter when Smith’s helmet made contact with Rams tight end Tyler Higbee’s helmet after a reception. Although no flag was thrown during the game, the NFL reviewed the play and imposed the fine after the fact.
This hefty fine marks the largest penalty for any Vikings player this season. In past years, $45,020 was the fine for a second offense of illegal helmet use, but the league has increased its penalties to include first-time offenders, as part of its crackdown on dangerous hits.
Vikings’ Fines This Season

Harrison Smith’s penalty far exceeds any other fines issued to Vikings players in 2024. Here’s the full list:
- $45,020: Harrison Smith, impermissible use of the helmet, playoffs
- $11,255: Byron Murphy Jr., taunting, Week 16
- $15,167: Jerry Tillery, hit on defenseless player, Week 13
- $6,544: Cam Akers, impermissible use of the helmet, Week 10
- $11,255: Blake Cashman, face mask, Week 10
- $11,255: Cam Robinson, late hit, Week 10
- $11,817: Aaron Jones, low block, Week 8
- $5,120: Ivan Pace Jr., face mask, Week 8
- $9,667: Jihad Ward, late hit, Week 2
The NFL directs all fine money to the NFLPA Players Assistance Trust, which supports retired players, and various charitable organizations.
Harrison Smith’s Legacy and Future
Despite his immense career earnings—nearly $100 million over 13 years—and a 2024 cap hit of approximately $6.5 million, losing $45,020 is still a sting for Smith. At 35 years old, Smith is the Vikings’ longest-tenured player and one of the league’s oldest defensive stalwarts.
The 2012 first-round pick and potential future Hall of Famer now faces another offseason of tough decisions. Will he return for a 14th NFL season, or will this playoff loss mark the end of an illustrious career?
Smith has yet to announce his decision, but emotions were running high for the veteran as the Vikings’ season came to an abrupt end. If this is his farewell, his legacy as a leader and one of the top safeties in the game is already secure.