Shelby Harris – DT
This is easily the biggest surprise on this list as Shelby Harris isn’t a well-known name around the NFL. The Vikings certainly remember him though since the last time he faced them he destroyed the interior of their offensive line as a member of the Denver Broncos. Visions of him are still probably keeping Garrett Bradbury and Pat Elflein up at night.
When Harris faced Minnesota last November he was dominant. He had five tackles, three sacks, and he was no match for Bradbury or Elflein as he used his size, power, and speed to blow by them with relative ease. Harris made it extremely difficult for the Vikings to pass the ball and he was a major reason the Broncos jumped out to an early 20-0 lead in their Week 11 matchup.
If Harris does come to the NFC North this offseason he’d probably end up in Detroit as they have the biggest need at defensive tackle. He’d make the Lions defense much more formidable as he’d provide interior pressure that would cause opposing quarterbacks to hurry their throws, which could lead to big plays for Darius Slay and Justin Coleman in their secondary.
If Harris landed with the Bears, it would be extremely troubling as Minnesota already struggles enough with their defensive front. He’d also be a nightmare on the Packers defense, giving the Vikings something to worry about up the middle while trying to contain Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith on the outside.
Minnesota will just be hoping this big man signs somewhere far away, so they only have to see his face once every three years.