Let's be real for a second. If you’ve spent any time watching the desert birds lately, you know the vibe around the wide receiver for Arizona Cardinals has shifted from "rebuilding project" to "wait, are we actually elite?" It’s a weird spot to be in. For years, we were spoiled by Larry Fitzgerald’s gravity-defying hands, and then things got... messy. But as we sit here in January 2026, the room looks entirely different than it did even eighteen months ago.
Honesty is the best policy here: most people are still obsessed with the name on the back of the jersey, specifically the one ending in "Junior." And yeah, Marvin Harrison Jr. is basically the sun that the rest of this offensive solar system revolves around. But if you think he’s the only reason this unit is scary, you haven't been paying attention to the stat sheets or the film.
The Michael Wilson Ascent (Yes, It Happened)
While everyone was watching Marvin, Michael Wilson quietly turned into a monster. Seriously. In 2025, the guy didn't just "step up"—he exploded for 1,006 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns. You don't just stumble into a thousand-yard season in the NFL, especially when you're playing opposite a target-hog like Harrison.
Wilson has always had the frame, but the health was the question mark. He played 17 games this past season. When he’s on the field, his route running is crisp, and he has this uncanny ability to find the soft spot in zone coverage that makes life incredibly easy for the quarterback. He’s become the ultimate "Z" receiver for this scheme.
He’s not just a deep threat either. Look at his numbers:
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- 78 receptions (a massive jump from his rookie and sophomore campaigns).
- 12.9 yards per catch, proving he's moving the chains, not just hunting for highlights.
- 66.7% first-down rate in the first half of games.
Basically, if it’s 3rd and 7, the ball is probably going to #14.
Why Marvin Harrison Jr. is Still the Alpha
Okay, let's talk about the Maserati in the room. Marvin Harrison Jr. had a "down" year by some people's ridiculous standards because he didn't hit 1,500 yards. But let's look at the actual context of 2025. He dealt with a carousel of defensive brackets—teams were literally selling out to stop him, often putting a safety over the top every single snap.
Even with that, he hauled in 608 yards and 4 touchdowns in just 12 games during the 2025 stretch. His rookie year in 2024 was where he set the bar, tying the franchise record for rookie receiving TDs with 8. He’s the guy who dictates coverage. When he’s on the field, the defense has to lean his way, which is exactly why Wilson was able to feast.
Harrison’s average depth of target (aDOT) sits at a spicy 13.9 yards. He is the vertical threat that keeps safeties from creeping into the box to stop James Conner and Trey Benson. Without him, the whole thing falls apart.
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The "Dortch" Factor and the Slot Dilemma
Then there’s Greg Dortch. Everyone's favorite underdog. He’s 5'7", he’s lightning-fast, and he’s constantly being underestimated. The Cardinals brought him back on a $3.3 million tender for 2025, and he’s been the reliable safety valve.
But here’s the thing: Dortch is an impending free agent heading into the 2026 offseason. He’s 27 now. He’s been a pro's pro, but with younger guys like Xavier Weaver and Tejhaun Palmer pushing for snaps, the slot position is in a bit of a flux. Weaver, specifically, has shown some real flashes as a returner and a gadget guy.
The depth chart currently looks like this:
- Marvin Harrison Jr. (The Franchise)
- Michael Wilson (The Professional)
- Xavier Weaver / Greg Dortch (The Speed/Slot)
- Jalen Brooks (The Specialist)
The Trey McBride Reality
We can't talk about the wide receiver for Arizona Cardinals without mentioning the guy who isn't a wide receiver. Trey McBride.
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McBride is essentially a WR1 in a tight end’s body. In 2025, he was arguably the best tight end in football, period. He led the team in targets (161) and receptions (119). When you have a tight end vacuuming up that much volume, it changes what you need from your WR3 and WR4. You don't need a high-volume slot guy; you need guys who can win on the outside when McBride and Harrison are pulling the gravity of the defense toward the middle.
What's Next for the Birds?
As we head into the 2026 offseason, the Cardinals are in a fascinating spot. They have their "Big Two" in Harrison and Wilson. They have the best tight end in the league. But the depth is thin.
If Dortch leaves in free agency, expect Arizona to be aggressive in the middle rounds of the draft or looking for a veteran "Zay Jones" type of presence—someone who can play multiple spots and won't complain if they only get four targets a game.
Actionable Insights for Fans and Analysts:
- Watch the Free Agency Wire: Greg Dortch's status is the first domino. If he isn't re-signed by March, the Cardinals are almost certainly drafting a slot receiver early.
- Monitor Michael Wilson's Health: He proved he could stay healthy for a full season in 2025. If he repeats that in 2026, he’s going to command a massive extension.
- Expect the "Harrison Year 3" Leap: Historically, elite WRs explode in their third season once they've seen every defensive look possible. 2026 could be the year MHJ puts up All-Pro numbers.
- Check the Mock Drafts: Despite having talent, don't be shocked if the Cardinals take a flyer on a high-upside speedster in the 3rd or 4th round to replace the aging veteran depth.
This offense is built to score 30 points a game. The pieces are there. Now it’s just about keeping the engine tuned and finding the right role players to fill the gaps around the superstars.