The Arizona Cardinals are preparing to part ways with wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., just over two years after selecting him fourth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Harrison has reportedly been informed that he will not feature against the Detroit Lions on Sunday because a trade has been finalised. However, the identity of his next team has not yet been made public.
NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported on X that the teams involved would prefer to keep the destination confidential until after their respective games on Sunday.
Houston Texans Emerge as Potential Destination
The Houston Texans are among the teams believed to be interested in acquiring Harrison as they look to strengthen their offensive options.
Houston has endured a difficult start to the season, losing its opening four games. The team has also been dealt an injury setback after wide receiver Jayden Higgins suffered an ACL injury during training camp.
Adding Harrison could provide quarterback C.J. Stroud with another receiving option. The pair previously played together at Ohio State, giving them an existing connection that could be useful if the move goes ahead.
Although the Texans are considered one of the leading contenders, the Cardinals have yet to publicly confirm Harrison’s destination.
Cardinals Reportedly Seeking Draft Picks in Exchange
Speculation surrounding Harrison’s future has intensified in recent days, with reports suggesting Arizona is seeking a package of draft selections in return for the receiver.
A second-round pick is believed to be among the assets the Cardinals hope to secure.
The proposed move would bring an early end to Harrison’s time in Arizona, where expectations were high after the franchise used a top-five selection to bring him into the NFL.
Limited Role Under New Head Coach Raises Questions
Harrison’s departure comes after a disappointing opening four games under new Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur.
The receiver has struggled to establish himself as a central figure in the offence, with Michael Wilson and tight end Trey McBride taking more prominent roles.
Harrison scored his first touchdown of the season during last week’s defeat to the New York Giants, catching a 12-yard pass. However, his overall production has remained limited.
Through the first four games, the 24-year-old has recorded five receptions for 85 yards and one touchdown.
Harrison’s NFL Numbers Have Declined Since Rookie Season
Harrison arrived in Arizona in 2024 with considerable expectations, partly because of his family legacy. His father, Marvin Harrison, is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame after an outstanding NFL career.
The younger Harrison delivered his strongest professional season as a rookie, finishing with 62 catches for 885 yards and eight touchdowns.
His numbers declined the following year, when he recorded 41 receptions for 608 yards and four touchdowns.
Arizona also endured a difficult 2025 campaign, finishing with a 3-14 record. Head coach Jonathan Gannon was subsequently dismissed, setting the stage for a new coaching era.
Trade Could Give Harrison a Fresh Start
A move away from Arizona could offer Harrison an opportunity to rebuild his momentum and secure a more prominent role in another offence.
For the Cardinals, the reported deal could provide valuable draft capital as the franchise continues to reshape its roster.
If Houston secures his services, the Texans would add a receiver with significant draft pedigree and a previous connection to Stroud. However, until the destination is officially announced, Harrison’s next chapter in the NFL remains uncertain.
