Marvin Harrison Jr.’s Challenging 2026 Season with the Cardinals

The 2025 NFL season presented challenges for Marvin Harrison Jr. as he grappled with injuries. These setbacks limited him to participating in only 12 games. As a result, his 2026 campaign is poised to serve as a reintroduction for him as a top wide receiver in the league. Yet, the start has been rocky.

In the first two games of the season, Harrison has caught a single pass and been targeted merely four times. This is concerning given that Arizona’s quarterback, Jacoby Brissett, has attempted 65 passes in these games. The lack of involvement from the player once considered pivotal for the franchise raises eyebrows.

Though the statistics alone are telling, Harrison’s energy and demeanor on the field have also drawn attention. Unfortunately, they have not been positive signs. A wide receiver attracting notice without making plays isn’t promising.

The Cardinals haven’t secured a playoff victory in over a decade, and they entered the current season with low expectations in a competitive NFC West. However, this does not excuse Harrison’s lack of impact. As Arizona looks ahead to 15 more games, there’s still potential for him to emerge as a standout. Yet, there’s little indication of that happening so far.

In his rookie season in 2024, Harrison led the Cardinals with eight touchdown receptions and was second in targets with 116. Now, after only two games in 2026, he’s projected to finish the season with zero touchdown catches and 34 targets.

Harrison’s struggles are unexpected, especially considering his collegiate success. He recorded back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons at Ohio State and was drafted fourth overall by Arizona. Less than three years ago, he finished fourth in Heisman Trophy voting. However, he currently doesn’t resemble the same player in his third NFL year.

Mark Harris is a writer for OutKick.