Frazier on Harvin not being around team: 'It's purely up to him'

Remember Percy Harvin? Pretty good player? Pippen to Adrian's Jordan? Once led the league with 62 catches? Was considered an early league MVP front-runner until he suffered a torn ligament in his left ankle at Seattle on Nov. 4?

Well, his name came up today because Harvin hasn't been at Winter Park since being placed on injured reserve on Dec. 5. (And, btw, the Vikings might want to consider forwarding his mail because it's piling up in his locker).

The Vikings have gone 5-2 without Harvin on the field or, for that matter, anywhere near the team. Coach Leslie Frazier was asked today about Harvin's situation. Here's the exchange with reporters:

Q: Is it by design that Percy is not around or would you prefer that he's here?

A: "It's purely up to him. If he wanted to be around, he could be around. But the guys are working hard doing everything they can. I know he wants our team to do well and that's important. But we got some other guys who are on IR as well, so it doesn't concern us."

Q: Have you talked to him?

A: "Not lately."

A: "Yes."

Q: Is it odd that a player as high profile as Percy not being here?

A: "No. I know he's supportive of his teammates. As any of the guys who are on IR that don't travel with us or don't participate in what we're doing, it's nothing that upsets their teammates or gets them concerned. These guys are so focused on Green Bay and getting ready for that game. That's what's most important."

Q: Is it routine for a guy on IR when he's not going to come back to rehab on his own?

A: "Not on his own. We monitor his rehab."

A: "Yes."

Q: What is the status with his ankle? Will he need surgery?