Percy Harvin's career with Minnesota has been anything but smooth for the wide receiver. A migraine issue has kept Harvin from being a constant, reliable receiver for the team and now ongoing behavior issues have pushed the team to put him on the trading block. So where will the playmaker land? Sources are pointing at the New England Patriots as having possible interest. The Buffalo Bills and Seattle Seahawks could also be landing spots.
Harvin's problems began rather instantly with Minnesota after being drafted four years. A persistent migraine problem has kept him from playing a full season, missing numerous practice and games. Then there was a 2010 issue with then head coach Brad Childress where the receiver apparently lost his temper. A similar issue then occurred in 2012. Harvin went on a tirade directed towards head coach Leslie Frazier. Nursing an injured ankle at the time, the Vikings placed Harvin on injured reserve, ending his season and possible future in Minnesota. He missed the final seven games of the season. The team finished 5-2 from that point on, clinching a playoff berth.
There is no doubting Harvin's ability to be a great player. Prior to landing on IR in 2012, Harvin caugh 62 passes for 677 years and three touchdowns. With Harvin on the field, quarterback Christian Ponder threw for more than 200 yards in five games. With Harvin off the field, Ponder only had two games where he threw for at least 200 years. The receiver is a difference-maker on the field, but behavior issues off the field have over shadowed that.
Harvin' contract could also be playing a big role in the trade rumors. Harvin draws a heavy price. He is set to make $2.9 million in the final year of his rookie contract and will likely be seeking a hefty extension, upwards of $10 million. With his baggage, the Vikings might only get a second or third round pick in return for Harvin, which might not sound like much, but getting rid of a locker room headache could do wonders for the team.
There is no doubt a team will pony up the money for the one-time first round pick. The first name beat writers have brought up is the New England Patriots. Head coach Bill Belichick is said to love the premier slot receiver. He would serve Tom Brady well, being very versatile. Belichick could easily handle the behavior issue. The Seattle Seahawks or Buffalo Bills could also benefit from the receiver.
While Percy Harvin might have some negative history to his name, examples show that it could play only a small factor in his trade stock with other teams. Minnesota is only just beginning the trade process with Harvin. While his destination is unknown, it is almost certain his days as a Viking are over.
