Minutes before the NFL's deadline to use the franchise tag, the Vikings got into the game by tagging a player for just the third time in the 21st century.
In something of a surprise move, the Vikings placed the franchise tag on safety Anthony Harris, giving them a chance to keep the safety for at least another season. The Vikings hadn't used the franchise tag since 2011, when they placed it on linebacker Chad Greenway before signing him to a long-term deal. They also used it on fullback Jim Kleinsasser in 2003.
Harris tied for the NFL lead in interceptions with six last season, setting himself up for a lucrative contract in free agency.