Anthony Harris is Headed to Philadelphia

Minnesota Vikings' Anthony Harris. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren).

After a 2020 season in which his play took a dip, many speculated whether Anthony Harris would be a player suiting up in a different uniform for 2021. It is now a certainty. Per Adam Schefter, Anthony Harris has officially signed one-year, $5 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.

While Harris’ play took a dip for the Vikings this past season, much of that can probably be attributed to the veteran having to help a young secondary become accustomed to the NFL game. The 29-year-old started all 16 games, but he only recorded seven pass defenses and zero interceptions. This is coming after a 2019 season where he recorded 11 pass defenses and six interceptions.

The Vikings certainly have plenty of options to replace him. The recently signed Patrick Peterson could move into that open safety spot to accommodate the aging cornerback. Safety is also a position that could be addressed in the draft.

The Vikings currently have seven picks in the first four rounds, and it is absolutely realistic for the team to package a couple of those to get into the second round. Should they pull that off, Trevon Moerhig could still be on the board for them.

As for Philly, this signing provides insurance for Rodney McLeod, who is rehabbing from a torn MCL. Before the injury, McLeod (whose contract they just restructured) and Marcus Epps were one of the best safety tandems in the league. Both players finished in PFF’s top-23 at the position.

That said, there will be questions about the 30-year-old McLeod going into the 2021 season. Harris provides a very overqualified backup plan and rotational third safety. There is also the possibility that he earns the starting job, especially if McLeod’s health proves to be an issue.

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