The Minnesota Vikings began retooling their roster this off-season. That isn’t uncommon when a new GM takes over. Still, some of their decisions to this point have raised eyebrows. One of them was cutting defensive tackle Armon Watts, fresh off five sacks last season. The Chicago Bears quickly claimed him off waivers last month. He provided two pressures on nine pass rush snaps in the opener. Now GM Ryan Poles may have quietly struck again.
Another casualty of the Minnesota purge was cornerback Harrison Hand. A former standout at Temple, he was drafted in the 5th round by the Vikings in 2020. He played well in his rookie year, allowing only 11 completions on 20 targets for a 74.6 passer rating. That included an interception and three pass defenses. He also made five special teams tackles. It was odd that Minnesota reduced his playing time in 2021. Perhaps the signing of veteran Bashaud Breeland had a lot to do with that. Either way, the Bears may have secured some quality depth on defense.
#Bears signed DB Harrison Hand to the practice squad. He was a 5th round pick of the #Vikings in 2020.
Hand was one of 3 players in for a tryout. Also included in the tryout were LB Chris Garrett & DE Gerri Green.
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) September 13, 2022
The Chicago Bears are a great fit for Hand.
Experts felt his best fit in the NFL was primarily a defense that ran zone. His size and instincts make sense for it. He plays a physical style and isn’t afraid to tackle. The one concern teams had was his lack of true speed. His 40 time is the same as Kyler Gordon. If the rookie can function at a high level in this scheme, there is no reason to think Hand can’t contribute. It comes down to what opportunities he’ll get.
Right now, the Chicago Bears seem to have their three guys in Gordon, Jaylon Johnson, and Kindle Vildor. So if the third-year corner wants to get involved it may have to come via special teams. He may get some looks there in the coming weeks. Beyond that, a lot depends on health. One injury to a key starter and he could end up seeing the field. Hand has an ability worth exploring. It feels like Minnesota abandoned him too quickly. Maybe the Bears will unearth more.
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