Marvin Harrison Jr. has gone from can’t-miss prospect to Cardinals’ afterthought
There are things that happen in the NFL Draft that simply don’t surprise you after watching classes unfold over the years. It wasn’t the least bit surprising when Zach Wilson became a bust for the Jets after seeing how he played at BYU against cupcake opponents, knowing that his play wouldn’t translate to the NFL. […]
Marvin Harrison Jr. began his NFL career as a high-profile prospect, with the Arizona Cardinals seemingly eager to draft the can't-miss NFL wide receiver after watching him excel at Ohio State. However, three years into his tenure, the dream appears to have collapsed. The Cardinals' season statistics now show Harrison Jr. with just two catches for 44 yards, and he's being phased out of Mike LaFleur's offense as Michael Wilson takes over as the team's top receiver.
Even 31-year-old Kendrick Bourne is seeing more playing time than Harrison. Harrison's struggles are evident, with incomplete receptions, drops, and minimal touches on rushing downs. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett has suggested that teams are targeting Harrison Jr. with two-high safeties to neutralize his post route. The issue appears to be twofold: a lack of explosive first step and an overall lazy playing style that allows defenders to ignore him.
Harrison Jr.'s struggles seem to stem from a lack of focus and effort, resulting in drops and a lack of reliability. While Richard Sherman suggests that the Cardinals should feed Harrison Jr. more to help him overcome his slump, the reality is that the team can't afford to sacrifice their entire offense to support a player who isn't giving his best effort.
Without a change in direction, Harrison Jr. is spiraling, and the future of his third-year NFL career remains uncertain.
Written by urgent.news from SB Nation's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
