Marvin Harrison Jr. Misses Second Straight Practice as Cardinals Prep for Texans’ Top-Tier Defense
GLENDALE - The Arizona Cardinals’ injury woes continue, and this one stings-literally and figuratively. Star wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. missed his second consecutive practice on Thursday with a heel injury, casting serious doubt on his availability for Week 15 against the Houston Texans.
Harrison, who already missed two games earlier this season after undergoing an appendectomy, re-aggravated his heel during his Week 13 return. According to head coach Jonathan Gannon, Harrison is able to run without much issue, but walking and jogging still cause significant discomfort-an ominous sign for a player whose game relies on sharp cuts and precise footwork.
At just 23, Harrison was expected to be a cornerstone in Arizona’s offensive rebuild. His rookie season was a model of consistency-healthy, productive, and full of promise.
But Year 2 has been a different story. He’s now in danger of missing his fourth game in five weeks, and the timing couldn’t be worse.
Cardinals' Injury Bug Bites Hard in 2025
Injuries have been a recurring theme for the Cardinals this season. Kyler Murray has battled through his own health concerns.
James Conner has missed time. Now, Harrison’s status is up in the air for a matchup that already looked like a tall order.
Arizona faces a Houston Texans defense that’s been lights-out against the pass-they currently rank third in the NFL in passing defense. That’s not exactly the kind of opponent you want to face short-handed. And for a Cardinals offense that’s leaned heavily on the air attack in recent weeks, Harrison’s absence looms large.
Michael Wilson Steps Up - But the Test Gets Tougher
One silver lining? Michael Wilson has answered the call in Harrison’s absence.
The second-year wideout has emerged as a reliable target, showing strong chemistry with quarterback Jacoby Brissett. Wilson’s route running has tightened up, and he’s made the most of his increased snap count.
But there’s a big difference between stepping up against average secondaries and going toe-to-toe with one of the league’s elite units. The Texans’ defensive backs are fast, physical, and disciplined. They don’t give up much after the catch, and they rarely get beat over the top.
Brissett’s Hot Hand Will Be Tested
Since taking over under center, Jacoby Brissett has quietly been one of the most efficient quarterbacks in the league. Since Week 6, he leads the NFL in both passing yards and completion percentage-a testament to his poise, decision-making, and the Cardinals’ pass-heavy game plan.
But even with Brissett dealing, the margin for error shrinks without a playmaker like Harrison on the field. The Cardinals’ run game has been inconsistent at best, and with the Texans likely to key in on Wilson, Arizona will need secondary options to step up-whether that’s Trey McBride from the tight end spot or a rotational receiver finding rhythm.
Week 15: A Gut Check for Arizona
This Sunday’s matchup is more than just another game-it’s a measuring stick. Can the Cardinals keep pace with a playoff-caliber defense without their top weapon?
Can Wilson continue his surge against the NFL’s best? And can Brissett maintain his high level of play under increased pressure?
If Harrison can’t go, the Cardinals will need to find answers-and fast. Because against a team like the Texans, being short-handed is one thing.
Being predictable? That’s a recipe for trouble.