3 Observations: Harrison Smith Snags 2 INTs in 1st Padded Practice

[Viktor]

EAGAN, Minn. — The pads came on and the intensity ramped up Monday afternoon at Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center.


The Vikings practiced for 90 minutes, the maximum amount per NFL rules on Day 1 of pads. Practices can be longer as the week progresses, going to a maximum of 105 minutes on Tuesday and 120 on Wednesday. Thursday's session is scheduled to be non-padded.


Players and coaches were excited for the pads to come on, as it upped the competitive nature on the field.


"I always look forward to that. That's when the game gets real — you're running around and the speed of the game is what we always try to practice," said Vikings Offensive Coordinator Gary Kubiak. "When we don't have pads on, obviously we're very fast and staying off the ground.


"All of a sudden, when the pads come on, the game gets different. That's just the way it is," Kubiak added. "Got to adjust — guys will get tired this week, and watch them stay focused on their job and keep competing. We'll learn a lot about our guys."


Defensive end Danielle Hunter did not practice. Neither did linebacker Ben Gedeon, who is currently on the Active/Physically Unable to Perform List.


Here are three observations from Monday's session presented by Minnesota Eye Consultants, the Proud Ophthalmology Partner of the Minnesota Vikings:


1. A pair of picks for Smith


They call him "Harry The Hitman," but Harrison Smith also patrols the secondary through the air, too.


The veteran safety looked just fine in the first day of pads Monday, as he intercepted Kirk Cousins in two different drills.


Smith's first pick came in a 1-on-1 drill against rookie wide receiver Justin Jefferson, as he stepped in front of the pass for the turnover.


He later added another pick in the middle of the secondary, quietly sneaking in front of a Cousins pass before going the other way.


Smith's 23 career interceptions rank seventh in team history, and he ranks first among all Vikings players with four career interception returns for touchdowns.