The Arizona Cardinals have plenty to be excited about—especially when it comes to their young talent. They drafted Walter Nolen in the first round, then pulled off an absolute steal by landing Will Johnson in the second round of the NFL Draft. On top of that, second-year wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is poised for a breakout season.
Harrison had a solid rookie year, but expectations were even higher—partly due to the pressure of being the son of a former NFL star. This year, however, could be different. Harrison may truly be unlocked if Arizona is able to add veteran receiver Keenan Allen.
“There are plenty of teams who need veteran help at wide receiver, but Allen fits in Arizona because the Cardinals must unlock all the potential in Marvin Harrison Jr., who was the fourth overall pick in last year’s draft ... and he (Allen) can give quarterback Kyler Murray another dependable target to go along with tight end Trey McBride," Jeffri Chadiha wrote.
Legendary Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald also believes Harrison is primed to take a big step in Year 2.
“I saw a guy who made a lot of plays," Fitzgerald said, via the Arizona Republic's Theo Mackie. "He did a really good job. When the ball came to him, he made his plays. He's only gonna continue to get better, so I'm excited to see his Year 2.”
What should really excite Cardinals fans, however, is what Harrison revealed on Monday: he’s been hard at work this offseason. Harrison has come into offseason workouts a new man, which is a very promising sign.
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“I definitely put on some pounds,” Harrison told reporters. “I added some muscle to my body.”
Any time a young rising star adds muscle in the offseason, it’s a promising sign. Harrison now has the physicality to better endure the rigors of the NFL—and stand his ground against defenders. His offseason dedication shows he’s aiming for an even bigger second year, one that could put the entire league on notice.