From the coin toss to the postgame festivities, Smith and Ham were celebrated as if their 24 combined Vikings seasons are coming to an end, though neither player made it official.
More from Vikings
Souhan: Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy ends the season on the sideline, with a lot to prove
McCarthy, still bothered by an injured right hand, bowed out of his last chance this season to impress his coaches and Vikings fans.
AuthoredJim Souhan
January 4, 2026
Souhan: What's next for Vikings leaders O'Connell, Adofo-Mensah and Flores?
The Vikings’ 2025 season wraps up Sunday against the Packers. Are any major changes on the horizon in the wake of a disappointing season?
AuthoredJim Souhan
January 4, 2026
Analysis: Was the Vikings' 2025 season encouraging or infuriating?
The Vikings, somehow, were tantalizingly close to a playoff spot. What conclusions will they draw from what went wrong?
AuthoredBen Goessling
January 4, 2026
Week 18 NFL picks: Did Matthew Stafford throw away the MVP award or was it Drake Maye’s all along?
On the NFL Insider Mark Craig breaks down the end-of-year award contenders and the last battles for playoff spots.
AuthoredMark Craig
January 3, 2026


