GLENDALE – Much of the spotlight on the Arizona Cardinals offense was on former fourth overall pick wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and his body transformation. After a mediocre rookie season, Harrison took the criticisms and went to work in the offseason and noticeably packed on some major muscles. He has impressed in training camp and looks ready to take a sophomore leap.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Arizona and Harrison face off against the New Orleans Saints in the 2025 season opener, which is the perfect opportunity for the 6’4 wide receiver to show off what he’s been working on.
Arizona Cardinals receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) watches from the sidelines during the team’s practice at State Farm Stadium on July 29, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Why Saints is perfect for 2nd-year Cardinals WR:
The 2024 Saints secondary allowed the fifth-most passing yards per game last season at 238.5 yards. Pro Football Focus has the top two defensive backs, Kool-Aid McKinstry and Alontae Taylor, outside the top 50 PFF grades for cornerbacks. Taylor was ranked the worst PFF grade of any defensive back last season at a 45.0.
The two biggest additions New Orleans made to the secondary was signing two-time Super Bowl champion safety Justin Reid and cornerback Issac Yiadom to be the anchors of the defense. Reid has played in 13 playoff games and has been a part of some elite Kansas City Chiefs defense.
Aug 14, 2025; Carson, CA, USA; New Orleans Saints safety Justin Reid (21) during a joint practice against the Los Angeles Rams at the Dignity Health Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Yiadom is a journeyman, who had his best year of his career with the Saints in 2023, recording 14 pass deflections. At 29 years old and seven years of experience, Yiadom has the most wisdom of any defensive back on the roster to cover Harrison.
Despite the improvements, New Orleans defense is a work in progress, only a year removed from being one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL. New Saints defensive coordinator Brandon Staley will likely rely heavily on zone coverage to counteract this hurdle.
Sep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) alongside quarterback Kyler Murray (1) against the Washington Commanders in the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Regardless, Harrison’s feel for the game was one of his strengths at Ohio State, and with the added muscles and confidence, should flourish in Week 1 in that department. Cardinals should aim to give Harrison the ball quick via short slants or curl routes to challenge the retooled New Orleans secondary, which will set the table for the rest of Harrison’s sophomore season.
Former Cardinals QB Jake Plummer leads parade of Arizona fans on Bourbon Street
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
