GLENDALE – Marvin Harrison Jr. was supposed to be the easy answer and a generational wide receiver in the NFL. The Arizona Cardinals selected the Ohio State star fourth overall in 2024, expecting a game-changing receiver. Three seasons later, that expectation remains largely unfulfilled. Through two games in 2026, Harrison has four targets, one reception, and 33 yards, and the questions surrounding his future in this Cardinals’ offense need to be addressed.
Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) on the field during warm ups prior to a game against the Atlanta Falcons at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
The most interesting part came Monday, when Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur pushed back against criticism of Harrison’s effort. “I don’t see it that way,” LaFleur said. “I think his running style is different than some other people’s.” That’s where the conversation gets complicated. A different running style can explain why Harrison doesn’t look identical to another receiver. It doesn’t explain an entire offense failing to consistently feature its highest-profile wideout. LaFleur also acknowledged that Arizona had opportunities that didn’t materialize, including a potential deep touchdown early against Seattle.
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona wide receiver Harrison Jr. (18) walks off the field after the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Cardinals HC Mike LaFleur speaks about Marvin Harrison Jr:
Arizona Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur says he and his teammates don’t see a lack of effort from Marvin Harrison Jr.
“I think his running style is different than some other people’s.” pic.twitter.com/IM4rYq1RKi
— Bo Brack (@BoBrack) September 22, 2026
That matters because the film can tell two stories at once, as Harrison Jr. may not be getting enough opportunities, but he also has to make those opportunities impossible to ignore. Arizona cannot keep treating the No. 4 pick like a developmental prospect forever. Eventually, production has to become the argument. The Cardinals don’t need to force Harrison 15 targets a game. They need to discover whether he can become the player the franchise drafted him to be. Because if the answer remains unclear deep into Year 3, the bigger question won’t be why Harrison isn’t producing; it will be why Arizona kept waiting for him to start.
Sep 25, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona wide receiver Harrison Jr. (18) greets running back Emari Demercado (31) and quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) against the Seattle Seahawks at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
