The bidding war for Mike Wallace will officially begin March 12 when free agency hits full swing. Teams are lining up to talk to Wallace. Many scouts believe him to be the best player in free agency this year. Wallace is likely out as a Pittsburgh Steeler and many teams will be in need of his playmaking abilities. The Minnesota Vikings are currently deciding what to do with receiver Percy Harvin and Wallace could likely be the replacement.
According to reports, the Vikings are one of the lead teams interested in Wallace preparing to part ways with their troubled receiver. Harvin is set to be a free agent after the 2013 season is currently looking for the team to offer him a deal. If the Vikings decide they will not offer Harvin a new contract, he will likely hold out until he gets the money he wants. The last thing the Vikings will consider is franchising Harvin.
It is believed Harvin will be asking for a deal close to what Calvin Johnson got in Detroit, eight years, $123 million. That is an average of about $16.5 million per year. Harvin does not have the stats to back that up and his behavior and headache problem will not warrant a large deal from Minnesota. Harvin had never reached 1,000 yards receiving or exceeded six receiving touchdowns in a season. Wallace would give Minnesota a big deep-threat receiver that would pair well with quarterback Christian Ponder's strong arm.
If Harvin is traded away, plenty of teams will come calling. He possesses quickness and is one of the best catch-and-run receivers in the league. Last season he averaged 8.9 yards after the catch. He can be used as kick returner or an effective running back. Teams like the New England Patriots or San Francisco 49ers could show interest in him.
The Vikings might decide to hold on to Harvin, knowing that they can replace him with Wallace. The Vikings made a strong run last season after losing Harvin to injury after nine games. He still led the team in catches and receiving yards but the team proved to be just fine without him. The Vikings could hold on to him for one more season and release him at no cost instead of trying to work out a trade this year.