EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Safety Dwight Smith, who had two interceptions for Tampa Bay in the 2003 Super Bowl, was released by the Minnesota today.

Smith, 29, had four interceptions in each of his two seasons in Minnesota, including a 93-yard touchdown return last November against the eventual Super Bowl champion New York Giants.

But he had some disagreements with the coaching staff, and also had off-field problems. Coach Brad Childress said the Vikings are "going in a different direction."

Two of Minnesota's backup safeties, Mike Doss and Tank Williams, become free agents next week.