Exactly how this Cardinals’ receiver group is shaping up

By admin — In News — September 9, 2026

   ​GLENDALE, ARIZONA – NOVEMBER 10: Marvin Harrison Jr #18 and Michael Wilson #14 of the Arizona Cardinals run up field against the New York Jets at State Farm Stadium on November 10, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Arizona Cardinals are dotting their “i’s” and crossing all the “t’s” as they prepare to play their first game of the season this weekend against the Los Angeles Chargers.This is an exciting time for both the coaching staff, the players, and the Cardinals fanbase.  RELATED:CARDINALS EXTEND MICHAEL WILSONThis new offensive system is the headline of this year’s team. New head coach Mike LaFleur has taken his experience under similar systems used with the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers. Does this mean that the Cardinals will have the offensive firepower of their division foes LA and SF?Yes and no. Yes, it is designed similarly, with a lot of schemes, player personnel, and traits the same. No, in that this doesn’t happen overnight.But this offense is loaded with talent. That is, on paper.It all starts with the offensive line and the talent of the quarterback. We will see if both of these boxes become checked as games fall off the calendar.The true test of the new offense is how the receiver room is utilized. Let’s do a deep dive.“X” receiverThe X receiver lines up wide from the offensive line. Back in the day, it was referred to as the “split end.” This position is responsible for running a complete route tree, having good moves, physicality, and the ability to get downfield.Marv Harrison (6’-3”, 220 pounds) is the Cardinals’ X receiver. It is what he played in college, and last year’s coaching staff – along with LaFleur’s guys – have kept him there. Harrison had a ton of success in the X at Ohio State, so why relocate him and attempt to teach him a new job?Just imagine if Harrison can take a huge leap this year. Name a receiver award in college, and that hardware became a fireplace mantelpiece for his household.There are plenty of questions regarding Harrison, and it all begins with his durability. He spent his entire career at all levels without ever having any major injuries, but last year he was in and out of the lineup. If he can remain upright, he can become a very valuable tool in this offense.This position typically remains isolated all game. In LaFleur’s system, Harrison must be highly versatile and will be moved around from side to side quite a bit. This is because of tactical responsibilities. One of these is the ability to absorb and fight off physicality from the outside cornerback, who can jam Harrison as soon as the ball is snapped. His job has no cushion against aggressive press coverage, and he has to be able to beat a jam. The X has the ability to use the sideline to his benefit.The X must be a good downfield blocker. Harrison is considered a willing and capable blocker, although this is not his strongest asset. While this of  

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