From CBS Sports · · 3m
Marvin Harrison Jr. vanishing from Cardinals offense
The fourth overall pick is barely getting targeted and showing concerning effort on the field.
In brief
The fourth overall pick is barely getting targeted and showing concerning effort on the field. Harrison is being used as a deep threat on a role that doesn't generate targets, but his lack of effort suggests he may have mentally checked out. Originally reported by CBS Sports.
Harrison barely getting the ball
Through two weeks, the Cardinals' top receiver has just one catch for 33 yards and only four targets. Five other Arizona players have more catches, including both running backs.
His stats rank near the bottom
Among 103 receivers with 25+ routes, Harrison ranks 100th in target rate at 6.5% and 92nd in yards per route run. Players like Konata Mumpfield and Xavier Legette are getting targeted more often.
This is a huge red flag
Harrison was the fourth overall pick from Ohio State and son of Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison. A bust trajectory after two disappointing years would be shocking for such a prospect.
He's deployed as a deep threat
Harrison has the deepest average route depth at 12.83 yards among all receivers. He's running go routes 30.6% of the time, the fifth-highest rate, which limits his targeting opportunities.
He's a sacrificial X receiver
Harrison lines up wide to run defenders off the line and create space for teammates underneath. This role isn't designed to generate high target volume, explaining his low usage.
His effort looks questionable
Harrison has a drop and film shows him running routes at less than full exertion. He lacks speed, crispness, and separation ability on his routes.
He looks checked out
In Week 2 against Seattle, Harrison barely pretended to be part of plays or look for the ball. His body language suggests he doesn't expect to be targeted.
“This looks like somebody who has checked out.”
Effort matters even when unused
Even if the ball isn't designed for you, running full-speed routes helps teammates get open. Harrison's lack of effort undermines the entire offense.
Better options exist in Arizona
Tight end Trey McBride leads all tight ends with 23 targets and is arguably the best at his position. Michael Wilson has also outperformed Harrison and earned more targets.
McBride and Wilson earned trust
McBride led all tight ends in targets, catches, yards and touchdowns last year. Wilson exploded when Harrison missed time and continues to produce. Both have proven themselves.
The roles were clearly defined
Coaches wanted Wilson in a Puka Nacua-style role as the Z receiver and Harrison in a Davante Adams role as the X. Wilson is thriving in his role while Harrison struggles.
The short version
Harrison is being used as a deep threat on a role that doesn't generate targets, but his lack of effort suggests he may have mentally checked out.
