Vikings Looking to In-House Playmaker to Become New Red Zone Threat
Kevin O’Connell understands that scoring in the red zone is difficult.
At the Annual League Meeting, the Vikings’ head coach took on the subject, noting that the crowd of ultra-talented defenders makes it difficult to get the full six points instead of settling for just three: “I think red zone defense is on a whole different level than what it’s been just with the type of skill sets and body types and length that defenses have.”
“You’re trying to find a way to punch it in,” O’Connell notes, but he understands that it isn’t easy.
One way of trying to overcome the challenge is to turn toward players who can create separation vertically. Or, put differently, the super long offensive players who can elevate to make a play on the ball, just like a power forward in basketball can elevate over someone else to grab a rebound. To that end, O’Connell will be looking toward new option, a playmaker who is already on the roster.
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N’Keal Harry was a large receiver. N’Keal Harry is now a small tight end. The veteran has switched positions.
The 6’4″, 225-pound player has been in the NFL since getting drafted at No. 32 in the 2019 NFL Draft. Originally, he was putting in work for the Patriots, but the production was modest. His top statistical season arrived in 2020 when he tossed together 33 catches, 309 yards, and 2 touchdowns. Notably, he also converted on 15 first downs.
In Minnesota, the hope is that becoming a tight end will allow Harry to be a chain mover and a red zone menace.
In early June, Kevin O’Connell spoke about the transition, noting that Harry is “really fired up about it, he has attacked the process.” O’Connell then said that he wants to “see the receiving traits kind of lead the way early on.”
“We’re hoping we’re developing a guy,” O’Connell explains, “that can grow into a real 3rd-down weapon, red zone weapon with his skill set. And then the more and more he can do from an all-down standpoint will only help his value.”
Characteristics that O’Connell mentions are Harry’s “ability to be explosive” and to win “contested catches.” One thinks of the earlier thoughts about the red zone and long defenders when O’Connell mentions the importance of winning those types of catches.
The major part where he needs to learn is when he has to get his hand in the dirt and help as a run blocker. If he can succeed there, then Harry is a contender to make it as the TE3 or TE4 as T.J. Hockenson recovers. Or, perhaps, the upside as a pass catcher allows for Harry to solely function as a receiving option. Time will tell, but coaches always want more well-rounded players.
Currently, the top options at tight end appear to be Josh Oliver, Johnny Mundt, and Robert Tonyan. There’s also competition from others, though. Sammis Reyes, Trey Knox, and Nick Muse are all competing for a spot on the final roster. Once T.J. Hockenson returns, then things get even tighter.
N’Keal Harry is looking to distinguish himself enough to secure a roster spot from within that very crowded competition. Being someone who can help the Vikings get the red zone touchdown instead of the field goal will be a major part of the equation for the playmaker.
Harry is 26.
Editor’s Note: Information from Pro Football Reference helped with this piece.
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K. Joudry is the Senior Editor for Vikings Territory and PurplePTSD. He has been covering the Vikings full time since the summer of 2021. He can be found on Twitter and as a co-host for Notes from the North, a humble Vikings podcast.
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