The media got its first live look at first-round pick Percy Harvin in Thursday’s OTA and he looked every bit as fast and explosive as advertised.

Harvin lined up in a number of different spots, including in the backfield and the slot, and he’s also getting reps as the punt and kickoff return man. We talked to Harvin after practice and here is some of what he said:

“It feels great,” he said. “There’s no better experience than what I’m going through right now. I’m glad to get the combine and all the stuff over with and finally lace it back up and get on the football field. It’s a wonderful feeling.”

(On the illness that forced him to miss the rookie minicamp) “I think it got a little blown out of proportion because of the swine flu. But I had extreme dehydration and a little flu going through the airport. It was dangerous at the time but it was nothing but dehydration. I got some fluids in me and I was back on my feet.”

(On learning the offense) “I study a lot so I don’t mess up too much on the field. I was told at a young age, if you mess up, mess up going full speed. Anything I’m doing I’m going full speed.”

(On his initial conversation with Adrian Peterson) “It was a pleasure meeting him. All he said was to come out here and work hard. He said play fast even if you don’t know something. Play 100 miles per hour and eventually the coaches will catch you up.” 

(On being used in different roles) “I can’t tell you where I’ll end up. We’re kind of doing a little bit of both — a little bit of plays running out of the backfield and some slot. They’re just trying to get me used to all the positions and I guess toward the end we’ll figure out what I’ll play.” 

(On his expectations as a rookie) “I’m just trying to come in and be a contributor, whether that’s catching 100 passes or whatever it is, special teams. I just want to contribute to the team and be on the field and help any way I can.” 

(On studying playbook at night) “Oh definitely. That’s one thing I think a rookie is afraid of, coming out to practice and not knowing what to do and getting called out. That’s one thing I don’t like. I like to know what I’m doing when I come out here. I know there are some things I can’t catch on [quickly], but for the most part I’m going to know what I’m doing.”   

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