Vikings Discussing Long-Term Extension With Franchise S Anthony Harris

Sources tell Chris Tomasson of the Pioneer Press that the Vikings and franchise S Anthony Harris have actively been discussing a potential long-term extension.

According to Tomasson, there’s an “increased belief” that Harris will remain with the Vikings for the 2020 season either by franchise tag or a long-term deal. Tomasson says Harris’ preference is, of course, to sign a long-term extension with Minnesota.

A new deal for Harris would have to pay him as one of the top safeties in the NFL and could cost the Vikings around $14 million per year.

Harris has previously come up as a potential tag-and-trade candidate, considering that the Vikings have some cap issues and are already paying Harrison Smith over $10 million per year.

The franchise tag would cost the Vikings $11.441 million fully guaranteed for the 2020 season.

Harris, 27, wound up signing on with the Vikings as an undrafted free agent out of Virginia back in 2015. He spent most of his rookie season on the Vikings’ practice squad before eventually being called up in December.

Harris re-signed with the Vikings as a restricted free agent in 2019. He was slated to be an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career this offseason when the Vikings franchised him. 

In 2019, Harris played in 14 games and recorded 60 total tackles, one fumble recovery, six interceptions including one returned for a touchdown and 11 passes defended.  He was rated as Pro Football Focus‘ No. 1-ranked safety out of 86 qualifying players. 

We’ll have more on Harris and the Vikings as the news is available.