Minnesota Vikings: 5 best moves from the 2020 offseason
By Adam Carlson
5. The Vikings giving Anthony Harris the franchise tag
On the surface, committing nearly $11.5M to a safety when the team is struggling so badly against the salary cap might seem like a huge negative. However, when that safety has the talent that Anthony Harris does, it is definitely the right move.
After being unable to work out a long term deal, the Vikings realized that the market for a safety this year was poor and Minnesota would likely get a low round compensatory pick for his exit. Instead of letting the happen, the team used its franchise tag.
A price tag that high might seem like a huge investment, but this gives the Vikings an opportunity to work out a long term deal with a friendlier salary cap hit. Or, if that fails, Minnesota gets another opportunity to get a better compensatory pick following the 2020 NFL season.
Of course, all of this is based on the fact that Harris is actually one heck of a player. After a couple of amazing seasons that put him among Pro Football Focus’ top players, keeping Harris should be the top priority. If that can’t happen, getting maximum value for him is in the best interest of the Minnesota Vikings.