The Arizona Cardinals began their OTAs this week, and one star is already earning attention for how he's improved this offseason. Former top-five draft pick Marvin Harrison Jr. has reportedly impressed the coaching staff in his return to the facility.
Marvin Harrison Jr. impressive at Cardinals OTAs
It was a relatively disappointing rookie season for Marvin Harrison Jr. After an electric collegiate career at Ohio State, MHJ was hailed as one of the top wide receiver prospects in recent history. Even in a highly talented draft class, he was a lock to be taken in the top ten picks.
The pairing with the Arizona Cardinals made perfect sense. The Cardinals lacked a true No. 1 receiver, and Harrison Jr. fit the bill perfectly. He was expected to step in and become an immediate alpha receiver.
But things didn't quite go as planned. Marvin Harrison Jr. posted mediocre statistics in his rookie year, while fellow rookies like Malik Nabers, Brian Thomas Jr., and Ladd McConkey took the league by storm.
MHJ's rookie year wasn't bad by any means, but it left plenty to be desired. According to reports coming out of the Cardinals' OTAs, he's set to bounce back in his second season.
This offseason, teammates and coaches alike have been impressed by Harrison Jr.'s commitment and improvements. Fellow receiver Michael Wilson told reporters weeks ago that Harrison Jr. looked like he had bulked up over the offseason.
Harrison Jr.'s coaches are echoing the sentiment as OTAs begin.
When asked if he was impressed with the way Marvin Harrison Jr. looks right now, offensive coordinator Drew Petzing said, “Absolutely, you know I think he’s one of those guys that embody what we’re about. Just continuing to grind, and get better, and work at your craft.”
Petzing added, “If you look at his skill set, there’s not a lot of things I’m gonna tell you he can’t do.”
At the end of the day, Marvin Harrison Jr.'s success in year two is not just dependent on his progress this offseason. Fans were frustrated in 2024 with the way Harrison Jr. was used in Drew Petzing's offense. On many occasions, Harrison Jr. was wide open, but Kyler Murray failed to even look in his direction.
Murray's connection with his top receiver will be crucial for the effectiveness of this offense in 2025. Marvin Harrison Jr. has shown that he's willing to put in the work necessary to improve. Now, it's on Murray and Petzing to let him shine.