C.J. Stroud finds it perplexing to fathom that Marvin Harrison wouldn’t be the first wide receiver chosen in the upcoming NFL Draft. Having thrown passes to Harrison for multiple seasons at Ohio State, Stroud has witnessed firsthand the sheer dominance Harrison exhibits when the ball is in his hands.
Stroud’s sentiments aren’t meant to disparage the talents of Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze, two other wide receivers who could potentially be selected ahead of Harrison. Rather, Stroud firmly believes that Harrison stands out as the premier receiver in the 2024 draft class and, quite possibly, the top player.
“Why wouldn’t it be ‘Marv’? Just watch the tape,” Stroud asserted during a media session at Phase 1 of offseason workouts, as reported by a Texans transcript. “He’s been doing it since his freshman year, his true freshman year, all the way to now.
Marvin Harrison II: A Standout Receiver Ready for the NFL Spotlight
“I’ve heard things like, ‘He’s NFL ready, but others have more potential.’ How does that even make sense? If you’re ‘NFL ready,’ isn’t that the epitome of potential?”
Ultimately, Stroud offers straightforward advice: “Whoever’s making the decisions, just be wise. Keep it simple. Don’t overthink it,” he emphasized.
Harrison’s performance during his two years as a starter at Ohio State, particularly in his sophomore campaign alongside Stroud, underscores his prowess. He amassed 77 receptions for 1,263 yards and 14 touchdowns, earning consensus All-American honors while leading the Big Ten in touchdown receptions.
Even in 2023, without Stroud at quarterback, Marvin Harrison’s performance remained impressive. He secured the Fred Biletnikoff Award, distinguishing himself as the nation’s top wide receiver, with 67 receptions for 1,211 yards and 14 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 18.1 yards per catch. Notably, Harrison achieved these feats amidst the quarterback turnover at Ohio State.
Stroud Endorses Marvin Harrison II: A Legacy of Excellence Ready for the NFL
Adding to his accolades, Harrison earned All-American honors once again and ranked fourth in Heisman Trophy voting. Given Harrison’s remarkable achievements throughout his college career, Stroud finds it difficult to fathom why any team would overlook him in favor of another receiver.
It certainly doesn’t hurt that Harrison’s father, Marvin Harrison Sr., is regarded as one of the greatest wide receivers of all time.
“When you seek longevity and consistency, Marvin embodies that entirely. He lives and breathes football. His talent speaks volumes, but it’s his unwavering work ethic and leadership qualities that set him apart,” Stroud remarked. “I challenged him last year when Jaxon [Smith-Njigba] was sidelined. I tasked him with stepping up as a leader, and he embraced that role wholeheartedly.”
Stroud holds a desire to reunite with Harrison on the field someday. Reflecting on their time together, Stroud takes pride in helping Harrison evolve into a well-rounded player.
“While he may not be the most vocal, his leadership grew with each game, and his personality began to shine through. Personally, I’d jump at the chance to share the field with him again,” Stroud expressed. “That opportunity may be down the road, but I couldn’t be prouder of his growth and accomplishments.”
