Marvin Harrison Jr. Nears Return as Cardinals Eye Falcons Matchup
After missing the last two games with a lingering heel injury, Arizona Cardinals rookie wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. is trending toward a return this Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons. It’s been a frustrating few weeks for the first-year receiver, who injured his foot back in Week 13 against Tampa Bay. But now, with kickoff looming at 1:05 p.m. local time in Glendale, Harrison says he’s “good enough to go.”
That’s not exactly a full green light, but it’s a promising sign for an offense that’s starting to find its rhythm under Jacoby Brissett. And if Harrison is anywhere close to 100%, his presence could give this passing attack another gear.
Deceleration, Not Speed, the Bigger Challenge
Harrison spoke with reporters after Friday’s practice and gave some insight into what’s been holding him back. It’s not the straight-line speed that’s the issue - it’s the stopping, the cutting, the quick changes of direction that make elite receivers so dangerous.
“Any kind of deceleration really,” Harrison explained. “I can kind of run straight, but changing directions and decelerating, that makes it tough having a heel issue.”
That’s the reality of playing through pain at this level. It’s not enough to just be fast - you have to be explosive in all directions, especially when defenders are trying to jam you at the line or mirror your every move downfield. For a technician like Harrison, whose game is built on precision routes and sudden breaks, even a slight hitch can throw off the timing.
Still, he’s not shying away from the challenge.
“Whatever my role is come Sunday, I’m going to do my best to star in my role, help the team win, make the plays if they come to me and just whatever I can do to help the team at this point.”
Gannon, Cardinals Taking a Cautious-but-Flexible Approach
Head coach Jonathan Gannon isn’t tipping his hand on how much Harrison will play - or if he’ll play at all. But the plan is clear: if Harrison looks and feels good during pregame warmups, he’ll be treated like a full-go.
That’s a calculated move. The Cardinals know what Harrison brings to the table, and they’re not going to risk aggravating the injury unless he’s ready to contribute at a high level. But they also know that even a limited Harrison can make a difference - whether it’s drawing coverage, moving the chains, or simply being a decoy to open things up for others.
A Tough Year, But Harrison’s Still Locked In
This season hasn’t gone the way Harrison or the Cardinals hoped. Between injuries, inconsistency, and a team still figuring out its identity, it’s been a grind.
“It’s been tough. Definitely has been tough,” Harrison said.
“The whole year has been tough, honestly, just how I think what we wanted to be going into this year and kind of where we’re at right now is definitely not what we expected. But you got to keep going one day at a time and stick to your process.”
That’s the mindset you want from your top rookie - especially one who’s already shown flashes of being a future WR1 in this league. Even in a season that’s fallen short of expectations, Harrison is staying focused on the work.
Why Play Him Now?
With just a few games left on the schedule and the playoffs out of reach, some might wonder why the Cardinals would risk putting Harrison back on the field. But this isn’t about chasing wins in a lost season - it’s about development, continuity, and giving your young core reps together.
And if Harrison feels ready and wants to play, the coaching staff isn’t going to hold him back.
Brissett, McBride, and the Offense Starting to Gel
Quarterback Jacoby Brissett has brought a steady hand to the offense, and the passing game is starting to click. Tight end Trey McBride continues to be a revelation, leading the NFL in receptions and emerging as a true go-to target. Michael Wilson has also shown growth, and the potential reunion of McBride, Wilson, and Harrison on the field could give fans a glimpse of what this offense might look like in 2026 and beyond.
If Harrison is able to suit up and contribute, even in a limited role, it’s a win for the Cardinals - not just for Sunday, but for the bigger picture.