Are the Vikings playing a dangerous game with Anthony Harris?

Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer is playing with fire regarding Anthony Harris, who he hinted might be allowed to walk away from the team.

Minnesota Vikings safety Anthony Harris may be heading elsewhere this offseason after head coach Mike Zimmer recently stated the team might not be able to keep the free-agent safety.

Harris enjoyed an exceptional 2019 season in Minnesota and he played a significant role in the team returning to the playoffs. Since he played as well as he did during a contract year though, there are now plenty of questions surrounding his future with the Vikings.

Speaking at the NFL Combine, Zimmer was non-committal about offering the talented safety a lucrative new deal this offseason. A decision like this would probably be met with criticism by the Minnesota fan base if a talented player in his prime like Harris was allowed to leave.

Harris had a career year in 2019 after finally earning his place in the starting lineup. He notched 60 tackles, six interceptions, and 11 pass breakups and was ranked as the second-best safety in the NFL by Pro Football Focus.

His play last season ensures the 28-year-old is going to be a coveted free agent this year and he will likely get the big payday his outstanding level of consistency deserves. There is still a chance he ends up back with the Vikings, but if Zimmer’s comments were any indication, this seems unlikely.

But is Minnesota playing with fire by letting someone like Harris depart for a new team this offseason?