5 most disappointing Vikings players of the 2020 season

Anthony Harris – S

Anthony Harris statistically didn’t have a bad 2020 season. He had a career-high in tackles with 104, but there were some things that he failed to do that were disappointing. Harris had been seen as a ballhawk in recent seasons. He had three interceptions in nine starts in 2018, and just a season ago, he had an impressive six picks. In 2020, Harris ended up with zero, and he also went from 11 pass breakups to 7 and failed to make the big plays needed to win games.

Some factors could explain Harris’ lack of big-play ability and overall coverage skills. The biggest has to do with the lack of pressure up front. The Vikings’ front seven struggled badly to get any heat on opposing quarterbacks. Signal callers had all day long to scan the Vikings’ secondary and find the open man. No matter how good Harris’s coverage skills are, he can only contain elite wideouts so long before they eventually break free. Harris also had to play with a young group of corners in front of him. Much of his time likely had to do with ensuring they understood their responsibilities and were lined up in the proper spots.

While there are some reasons for Harris’ down numbers, one thing that can’t be denied was the lack of effort he put forth in the Saints blow out defeat. Harris decided he wasn’t going to come up and sacrifice his body to take down Alvin Kamara or Latavius Murray, instead electing to force them out of bounds or dive at their ankles. This lack of effort was very disappointing to watch. It was clear Harris realized the Vikings’ season was over, and he did his best to ensure he’d stay healthy and not jeopardize losing money in free agency when he’s looking for his last big payday.