Should the Jets Inquire About Percy Harvin?

Jun 19, 2012; Eden Prairie, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin (12) kneels during practice at Vikings minicamp at Winter Park. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-US PRESSWIRE

Tonight is a big night for the New York Jets. No, not solely because they open the preseason, although that is a big part of it. The reason tonight is a big night is that we get to see a glimpse of how good our depth is at the wide receiver position. It has been widely discussed, the injury problems that they have had so far in camp. Santonio Holmes and Jeremy Kerley are inactive for tonight’s game. We get to see Stephen Hill, Patrick Turner, and Chaz Schilens show their skills.

Tonight will be a night that goes a long way in determining whether or not the Jets need to sign a veteran wide receiver to add to the depth. One name that has been on a lot of Jets fans’ lips is Minnesota WR Percy Harvin. Back in minicamp, he demanded a trade which the Vikings turned down. He seems now content to play out the season, but a lot of discussion has begun about whether Tanny and the Jets should inquire about this guy.

Well, let’s talk about it. Turn the page.

He measures in at 5’11” 184 pounds. The Jets have been interested in this guy before. In the 2009 draft, after choosing Mark Sanchez, the Jets tried to trade back into the middle of the first round to choose Harvin. It didn’t work out as the Jets didn’t want to trade a future first round pick. But clearly, the Jets staff is high on Harvin.

Percy has been a consistent performer at wide receiver, and has improved every year, beginning with 60 catches in his rookie year, and recording his best year in 2011 with 87 catches. He also rushed for 345 yards last season, which would be an asset to the ground and pound, especially in Wildcat situations.

Harvin is also a threat in the kick return game, with 4 TDs over his three seasons. The Jets had reason to be smitten with Harvin, at the combine in 2009 he ran a 4.41 40 yard dash.

Take a look at some highlights of Harvin:

You have to like what you see from this guy. He has great straight ahead speed, you can see that, especially in the return game. When he gets a head of steam, he is gone. He has great hands, and he is tough to bring down.

Tanny has to give the Vikings a call on this guy. The question is how much he will cost. With Holmes returning, they should not mortgage the future. A first round pick may be too much.

Clearly, this guy would be an asset to the New York Jets. They need depth, and Harvin would add depth. If he would come here, and understand that he is not the main guy, we could have something. Just don’t give up the ranch for him.