Fitzgerald: Harrison will 'continue to get better' in 2nd season
Count legendary receiver Larry Fitzgerald among the many Arizona Cardinals fans eager to see the progression of Marvin Harrison Jr. following a modest rookie season.
"I saw a guy who made a lot of plays," Fitzgerald said, according to 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."
Like Harrison, Fitzgerald was a top-five selection in 2004, 20 years prior to the 22-year-old. Fitzgerald established himself as one of the NFL's most consistent and dynamic receivers, tallying 1,432 receptions, 17,492 yards, and 121 touchdowns during a Hall of Fame-worthy career.
Harrison posted solid numbers as a rookie last season. He navigated the peaks and valleys to tally 62 catches for 885 yards and eight touchdowns. The Ohio State product was overshadowed by fellow first-year wideouts Brian Thomas Jr., Malik Nabers, and Ladd McConkey who each posted 1,000-yard campaigns.
Fitzgerald didn't top 1,000 yards in his debut campaign either, hauling in 58 catches for 780 yards and eight scores. He eclipsed those numbers in his sophomore campaign, recording a league-high 103 receptions to go along with 1,409 yards and 10 touchdowns.
While Fitzgerald isn't in regular contact with Harrison, he said he's open to being a sounding board for Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison Sr.'s son.
"If he ever needs anything, I told him, I'm always available for him any way I can be helpful," Fitzgerald said. "But fortunately he has a father who was a heck of a lot better than I was, so he can tap into him whenever he likes."
Harrison is expected to take a leap in his second year playing alongside offensive standouts Kyler Murray, James Conner, and Trey McBride. The Cardinals finished 11th in the league in yards (358.2) and 12th in points (23.5).