Arizona Cardinals receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. had a disappointing rookie season. While nearly 900 yards and eight touchdowns certainly isn’t bad, Harrison Jr. failed to live up to the astronomical expectations set for him coming out of college.
Since the end of the 2024 season, the Cardinals have done nothing to support Harrison Jr. They still have clear weaknesses on offense that could limit his production in his second season.
One of those weaknesses is their lack of a deep threat at wide receiver. In his rookie season, Marvin Harrison Jr. was forced to play a field-stretching role that didn't suit his skill set. To open up the offense and unlock Marvin Harrison Jr.’s potential, the Arizona Cardinals should take a look at bringing in one of these three receivers.
The Arizona Cardinals should target these 3 receivers
Rashid Shaheed
If the New Orleans Saints are ever going to start a full rebuild, now is the time to do it. Derek Carr has retired, leaving the Saints offense with little hope of being competent in the near future.
That means that speedy receiver Rashid Shaheed could be available for a trade. Shaheed has been the Saints’ deep threat for most of his career. In 2024, he posted an Average Depth of Target (ADOT) of 18.1 yards, which ranked fourth among qualifying receivers.
At just 26 years old, Shaheed likely still has a few seasons before he starts to lose his elite athleticism.
Gabe Davis
Unlike the other receivers on this list, Gabe Davis is available as a free agent. Davis was cut by the Jacksonville Jaguars earlier this offseason after one disappointing season with the team. During his time with the Buffalo Bills, Davis was an explosive receiver who produced long touchdowns on a relatively consistent basis.
While Kyler Murray is no Josh Allen, Davis could play a similar role with the Cardinals. On what would likely be a cheap, one-year deal, this is a move worth making.
Alec Pierce
Indianapolis Colts receiver Alec Pierce may be more difficult to obtain than the other receivers on this list, but he’s worth inquiring about. With Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, and Adonai Mitchell accompanying Pierce in their receiver room, the Colts could be willing to let their deep threat go.
Pierce led the NFL in ADOT last season at 22.8 yards. He’s able to take the top off of defenses and force them to respect his speed. That’s exactly what the Arizona Cardinals need.