Percy Harvin: Quick, and a quick study

Percy Harvin traveled south during the Vikings' bye week and spent some time with his former teammates at the University of Florida.

"A lot of them were saying, 'Keep up the good work.' They're proud of me," Harvin said. "They wish I could suit back up for them."

The Vikings are just as happy with the impact their rookie first-round pick has made on offense and as a kickoff returner through the first half of the season. Harvin has stated numerous times that he did not set any individual goals or expectations for himself, but his speed and play-making ability in both phases clearly have brought more firepower to the Vikings.

Harvin ranks second on the team in receptions (28), receiving yards (369) and touchdown catches (three). He also is second in the NFL in kickoff return average (30.7 yards) and is tied for first with two TD returns.

"Since Day 1, I was always good with my ability," he said. "The thing I wanted to do is learn defenses and just become a dimension on offense as well as special teams. I think I've accomplished that. I just want to keep growing as a football player and wide receiver."

Though his natural athletic ability and speed are undeniable, Harvin has proven to be a quick study as a slot receiver in the West Coast offense and as a returner.

Harvin did not return kickoffs at Florida but he's made a smooth transition to that role. His approach is particularly impressive. Harvin catches the ball and typically runs as fast as possible straight up the field.

"Not a lot of dancing," he said. "With my game I just want to see one hole and hit it. I think a lot of people dance around. It's the NFL. A lot of people are fast. You're not going to be able to go sideline-to-sideline and dance too much. ... I'm not afraid of contact. If I see a hole, I'm going to hit it whether I get hit or not. I've had a few big hits but I'm used to contact and don't mind it."

Harvin also has developed a bond with quarterback Brett Favre in the passing game. Favre has enough faith and confidence in Harvin to throw him the ball in any situation. He ranks fifth in the NFL in third-down catches with 15 -- more than half of his total receptions.

Coach Brad Childress said Harvin has shown "exceptional progress" in his ability to make split-second adjustments based on the coverage.

"There are lines in the playbook but they can't possibly describe to you all the options you have along that line," Childress said. "So just the understanding, some of the flexibility he has along that line."

Harvin credits his natural instincts, Favre's knowledge and guidance and some freedom from the coaching staff.

"You might have a 10-yard route but obviously if somebody is standing there you want to cut it down to 8," he said. "A lot of that is just having football instincts and just knowing the game of football. A lot of that goes to the coaching staff for allowing us to play loose and not actually running the routes that are drawn up on paper every time."