Revisiting the Wild Seahawks-Vikings Trade for Percy Harvin

Seattle Seahawks receiver Percy Harvin
Seattle Seahawks receiver Percy Harvin / Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Former Florida Gators star and Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin was a player ahead of his time. A speedster that doubled as an excellent returner and backup running back, Harvin was electric with the ball in his hands.

In 2013, knowing what he could have brought to their offense, the Seattle Seahawks traded three draft picks, one of which was a first-round selection, to the Vikings for Harvin, who didn't exactly have the most productive stint in the Pacific Northwest.

The first-rounder the Vikings acquired was used to select Xavier Rhodes, while the 2014 third-round pick they added was used on Jerick McKinnon.

Injuries almost prevented Harvin from seeing the field at all during the 2013 season, as he recorded just one catch for 17 yards. He did return for the playoffs, however, and his speed helped him run the opening kickoff of the second half of Super Bowl XLVIII back for a touchdown. His time in Seattle was brief, but it helped land everyone a championship ring.

In the middle of his second season, after struggling to get touches consistently, Harvin was traded to the New York Jets. He spent half a year with them and two short stints with the Buffalo Bills before retiring.

Migraines and injuries halted what could have been a great career, but this trade seems to have been a win for both sides. 2019 notwithstanding, Rhodes turned into a fine cornerback for five years in Minnesota, while Harvin made some key plays that helped Seattle win a Super Bowl. He's not exactly Steve Largent, but that kick return will remain a legendary moment for Seahawks fans considering it pretty much put the nail in the Broncos coffin.