Cardinals coach doubts effectiveness of Marvin Harrison in offense
Head coach Mike LaFleur expressed skepticism about using Marvin Harrison as a primary target after a limited performance in Week 1, and the receiver dealt with a minor injury before returning to practice.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur said the team’s scheme did not work well for wide receiver Marvin Harrison in the season-opening game, noting that Harrison was targeted only once and played just 74 percent of the snaps. The rookie caught a single 33-yard pass on three targets, prompting LaFleur to question how quickly he can be trusted in the offense.
Harrison missed part of practice on Sunday with what the team described as cramps, though video showed him also tending to his left ankle and back. He returned on Tuesday, participating as the primary receiver in a 13-personnel group and logging more snaps than veteran Michael Wilson. The coach indicated the injury appears minor and that Harrison is expected to be healthy for upcoming practices.
Reporters observed that Harrison’s role remains uncertain, with Wilson continuing to be the preferred deep-field option and tight end Trey McBride attracting many short-range targets. LaFleur, a former Rams offensive coordinator, hinted that Harrison could see more red-zone usage, but his production so far has been limited.
"But, obviously, it’s definitely nothing that prevents me from anything at the moment. I go 100%. I’m still out there doing everything I normally would do, but yeah, it’s just like an ongoing process for sure," Harrison said.
The Cardinals will need Harrison to contribute against the San Francisco 49ers, but fantasy analysts suggest Wilson remains the safer pick until Harrison demonstrates consistent performance.