Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin isn't happy. That much isn't new. The Vikings have also said that they would like to keep their unhappy wide receiver. Also old news. The news today is that Percy Harvin wants to be traded, this according to Sid Hartman of the "Star Tribune," citing "good sources" around the NFL.
A Harvin, Vikings break up now seems all but inevitable. Harvin, who has one year left on his contract, is seeking a big contract, and to make his statement, he's expected to be absent when the Vikings begin workouts on April 22.
Harvin is slated to make $2.75 million in 2013. Despite never topping 1,000 yards receiving in a single season, Harvin will demand a big contract whether that comes from the Vikings or a future team.
The biggest hurdle the Vikings will need to clear if they decide to attempt to trade Harvin will be his contract situation. Most teams won't be looking to pick him up for one year, and even if they did, it's unlikely Harvin would play for anyone under his current contract. He's looking for guaranteed money down the road, and that's something the Vikings seem unwilling to give him at this point.
The probable outcome is a game of chicken. Percy Harvin wants a pay day, but the damage done to his reputation following an extended holdout, especially if it extended into the actual season, may cost him ,money down the line. On the other side of the equation, the Vikings may look to get whatever they can from Harvin now, while they still have that option. A trade seems likely, but don't expect it in the immediate future. Both sides have a long time to wait before a trade is necessary, and expect the Vikings to take all the time they can to wait Harvin out.
