MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The Minnesota Vikings have exercised the fifth-year options on the contracts for safety Harrison Smith and left tackle Matt Kalil.
The Vikings announced the decisions Monday, ensuring that both first-round picks from the 2012 draft will remain under team control through 2016.
Smith’s option was considered a no-brainer. He was the 29th overall pick and has emerged as one of the best young safeties in the league. His option is for $5.3 million.
Kalil was a Pro Bowler as a rookie after being selected fourth overall but has struggled mightily the last two seasons. His contract option is for $11.1 million.
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