What happened: Smith agreed to a one-year, $12.25 million deal on Sept. 5. Playoff incentives can raise its value to $16.25 million.
Why it matters: The timing gives Minnesota eight days to fold the veteran safety into its defense before the opener. The move restores a six-time Pro Bowler to the secondary after an offseason of uncertainty.
By the numbers: Smith has started 203 of 207 career games, a 98.1% rate, while recording 1,180 tackles, 39 interceptions and 21.5 sacks.
What to watch: Smith's Week 1 role and workload will show how quickly Minnesota can use its late addition.