Free-agent tackle Andre Smith left his visit with the Minnesota Vikings Monday without a contract. The former Bengals tackle is planning to visit Arizona later this week.
Smith told the Pioneer Press’ Chris Tomasson he has narrowed his choice down to the Vikings and Cardinals, but said it’s about even right now.
Free-agent tackle Andre Smith on #Vikings visit: "Things went well today. It's between (the Vikings) and Arizona. It's even.''
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) March 14, 2016
Like many of the free agents the Vikings have pursued since Mike Zimmer came to Minnesota, the coach and Smith have a history.
Smith was drafted by the Bengals with the No. 6 overall pick in 2009. He has played his entire career with Cincinnati where he’s been the starting right tackle for the last five years.
The Vikings have been looking to upgrade the offensive line after the group struggled last season during Minnesota’s 11-5 season, which was good enough to win the NFC North.
During the offseason the Vikings have hired Tony Sparano to serve as the team’s offensive line coach. They also signed free agent guard Alex Boone to a four-year, $26 million deal last week.
Smith said his Minneota visit went well.
Free-agent tackle Andre Smith on #Vikings visit: "Great coaches. They seem to have a close locker room. Zim's a phenomenal guy.''
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) March 14, 2016
Smith arrived in Minnesota Sunday and had dinner at a downtown Minneapolis restaurant with Vikings officials and newly signed safety Michael Griffin. His visit continued Monday with a tour of the team’s facilities and more meetings with team officials.
According to the Pioneer Press, he even changed flights Monday, delaying his departure by a couple of hours while the Vikings made another effort to get him to sign.
Pro Football Talk has Smith as the highest-ranked remaining player on its PFT Hot 100 Free Agent List.
