Cardinals defend rookie receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. amid early-season criticism

The Arizona Cardinals are pushing back against criticism of rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who has recorded only one catch for 33 yards on four targets through the first two games of the 2026 season. A video that has been viewed more than 18 million times sparked debate over his effort, prompting comments from teammates and coaches.

"When you talk about his work ethic and you talk about him showing up and being engaged in the meetings and then going out on the field and giving 110 percent and being the Marv we all know he is, that hasn’t changed," quarterback Jacoby Brissett said, referencing a report by Arizona Sports.

"Nobody’s lost confidence in Marv. The hard part as a young player is the noise from the outside telling you what they expect from you and the things of that nature. Does Marv want the ball? Yes. Do we understand that he wants the ball? Yes. Is it only Week 2? Yes… At some point, the tide will change. When? We don’t know yet. Hopefully soon," Brissett added.

Head coach Mike LaFleur also defended the rookie, saying his running style differs from other players but that his teammates do not share the negative narrative. "I don’t see it that way. I think his running style is different from some other people’s," LaFleur told reporters. He later emphasized that Harrison continues to attack his assignments daily, as do his teammates.

LaFleur noted that while the team’s overall effort, including run blocking, must improve, there is no indication that the organization is considering trading Harrison. League executives have speculated about possible interest from other teams, such as the Houston Texans, but the Cardinals have not confirmed any trade discussions.