GLENDALE – The pressure on Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.’s shoulder continues to mount. The son of a hall of fame wide receiver and former fourth pick in 2024 NFL draft has had a tumultuous start to his career. The 23-year-old had a solid rookie season, but an injury-riddled 2025 has fans ready to throw around the bust label. One person not ready to count him out is legendary wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The newly-minted Hall of Famer appeared on Tyrann Mathieu’s podcast, “In The Bayou,” to discuss about Harrison’s development and expectations heading into Year 3.
Nov 9, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) catches a pass in the end zone for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Fitzgerald on Harrison’s offseason work ahead of Year 3:
In his first two years, Harrison has had 103 catches for 1,493 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. Those counting stats are respectable numbers, but his pre-draft expectations and peers’ success has fans ready to give up on the young prospect. If anyone would understand those murmurings, it would be Fitzgerald, who had a similar rookie season to Harrison.
Sep 15, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) catches a ball on the sideline in the first half against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
The former All-Pro had 780 yards and eight touchdowns in his first year, eerily similar to Harrison’s number. The similarities end there, as Fitzgerald would go on to have over 1400 receiving yards in Year 2, while injuries derailed Harrison’s sophomore season. Regardless, The 11-time Pro Bowler still sees potential, highlighting the game vs. the Dallas Cowboys in 2025.
Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald (left) and current wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) hang out on the sidelines during a high school game at Central High School on Oct. 4, 2024. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
People inside the organization are constantly telling Fitzgerald about Harrison’s work ethic and desire to be great. Being in a Drew Petzing run offense, that focused more on the run game and 13 personnel, likely damaged MHJ’s reputation and confidence. New head coach Mike LaFleur is coming from a Los Angeles Rams team that was pass-friendly and elevated the wide receiver room to new heights.
Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald gives Jeremiyah Love stamp of approval
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
