tixwork-420×60

Surprise Super Bowl Contender Emerges As Perfect Fit For Struggling Cardinals’ WR Marvin Harrison Jr. As Trade Rumors Pick Up

This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.

Marvin Harrison Jr is struggling.
Marvin Harrison Jr (Photo by IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

Marvin Harrison Jr. was once a can’t-miss prospect ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. Many pundits back then even suggested that he was one of the best wide receiver prospects in a long time.

Fast forward to today, and the former Ohio State star has been underwhelming for the Arizona Cardinals. Even his training camp videos are being heavily scrutinized. While he has shown promise in his rookie year, the subsequent seasons have been disappointing.

His 2026 campaign, despite being in its early stages, has been brutal. Is it time to look for a fresh start elsewhere for Harrison Jr?

San Francisco 49ers Could Become Solution To Marvin Harrison Jr.’s Woes

Niners should call for Harrison Jr.
Dec 10, 2023; Santa Clara, California, USA; A San Francisco 49ers helmet sits on the field before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

It’s not a foolproof plan, but the Niners could be the solution for the end of Harrison Jr’s continued struggles.

San Francisco’s wide receiver room is currently on the older side. They are heavily relying on a couple of 30-year-olds on a weekly basis. Mike Evans is already 33. Deebo Samuel is a bit on the younger side at 30. That’s usually the age group when WRs tend to fall off the cliff fast.

Furthermore, Brandin Cooks, who was just signed to the practice squad, is already 32. The team seriously needs some young legs out there right now. 

While a deal could be difficult to facilitate, the Niners should try calling the Cardinals to see if there’s a path. Maybe they’ll sell a bit low, considering Marvin Harrison Jr.’s subpar showing.

Harrison Jr. Is Already Labeled A Bust

Is Harrison Jr. a bust? Fans think so.
Jan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) against the San Francisco 49ers at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Due to his ongoing struggles, many have concluded that Marvin Harrison Jr. might be a bust. That’s a tough pill to swallow for the 24-year-old at this stage of his career.

But the term’s seemingly applicable, given how he has performed for the Arizona Cardinals so far in 2026. To make things worse, his numbers have regressed significantly since his rookie year.

Now in his third year, Harrison Jr should have had enough time to correct his mistakes on the field. However, his lack of progress has continued to hurt Arizona’s offense. Maybe he’s just checked out and wants a new start.

Some youngsters do play well after a change of scenery.

Teams