As the NFL draft approaches, all eyes are on Marvin Harrison Jr., the standout wide receiver from Ohio State. With a staggering record over the past two seasons—144 catches, 2,474 yards, and 28 touchdowns—it’s clear why Harrison Jr. is considered one of the top prospects. His former teammate and 2023 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, C.J. Stroud, didn’t mince words when discussing Harrison’s potential at a recent Texans’ press conference.
“Whoever’s up there, man, be smart. Don’t be dumb,”
Stroud advised teams at the top of the draft order, emphasizing the sheer folly it would be to overlook such a talent.
Marvin Harrison Jr.: Unparalleled Performance at Ohio State
Marvin Harrison Jr.’s journey at Ohio State has been nothing short of spectacular. With an impressive average of 17.2 yards per reception and consistent performance over two seasons, each culminating in over 1,200 yards and exactly 14 touchdowns, Harrison Jr. has proven his capability on the field.
His 14 touchdown receptions in 2022 alone accounted for more than a third of Stroud’s total passing touchdowns, showcasing a strong receiver-quarterback synergy that any NFL team would covet.
C.J. Stroud’s Full Endorsement
During the press conference, Stroud shared his high regard for Harrison’s readiness for the NFL, questioning the logic behind doubts cast over his former teammate.
“I think I read something like he’s NFL-ready, but other guys have more potential. That makes no sense. Like, what? If you’re ‘NFL ready,’ how is that not potential?”
Stroud argued, highlighting Harrison’s preparedness and innate ability to dominate on the field.
Stroud’s admiration for Harrison extends beyond his on-field skills, touching on his work ethic and influence.
“For him, that’s what he sleeps, eats, and he breathes. He’s a worldly talent, but also his work ethic and how he gravitates that room,”
Stroud praised, indicating the profound impact Harrison has on his teammates and the overall team dynamic.
C.J. Stroud warns teams about Marvin Harrison Jr.: ‘Don’t be dumb’ – FanSided https://t.co/z3JSiNnFvX
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The Draft Day Expectations
While Harrison is expected to be one of the first non-quarterbacks selected, perhaps even surpassing last year’s first wide receiver pick, Jaxon Smith-Njigba who went 20th overall to the Seattle Seahawks, Stroud expressed a wistful desire to reunite with his prolific receiver.
Although acknowledging that such a reunion in Houston—where the Texans have bolstered their receiving corps with names like Nico Collins, Tank Dell, and Stefon Diggs—might not happen soon, Stroud remains optimistic and supportive:
“For me, I think I would love to play with him again. I probably won’t get that opportunity for a while, but I’m super proud of him.”
As teams prepare for the upcoming draft, the advice from Houston’s quarterback resonates strongly:
“Whoever’s up there, man, be smart. Don’t be dumb. Don’t think too hard.”
With Harrison’s track record and Stroud’s ringing endorsement, it’s clear that Marvin Harrison Jr. is not just NFL-ready but poised to become a transformative player in the league. For teams at the top, passing on such a talent could be a decision they’ll regret for years to come.
Source: Fansided
