McCarthy starting season as Vikings QB3; unclear if Harrison Smith will play Sunday

Kevin O’Connell said the Vikings open the season Sunday with excitement, injury optimism and a week-to-week backup quarterback plan.

Speaking Wednesday, the Minnesota Vikings head coach said safety Harrison Smith is back with the team but his status for Sunday is still uncertain. O’Connell said the team expects everyone else to be available except rookie safety Jakobe Thomas, who is dealing with an illness.

RELATED: Six-time Pro Bowler Harrison Smith returns to Vikings on one-year deal

“Obviously really, really excited to have Harry back in house here,” O’Connell said. &...