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Cardinals Have Not Forced Targets to Harrison

Head coach Mike LaFleur confirmed the team will maintain a balanced offensive strategy heading into Week 3.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Football

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Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur aims to refine the team's offensive rhythm by spreading target distribution following a Week 2 loss. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur confirmed the team will not force targets to receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. following a slow start to the season. The decision comes after the Seahawks defeated the Cardinals 31-7 in Week 2, a game where Harrison recorded zero catches.

Why it matters

The Cardinals are prioritizing tight end Trey McBride as their primary underneath receiver to maintain offensive balance. Coaches emphasize distributing targets among multiple players within their 65-play offensive rotation.

In the Week 2 loss, Trey McBride logged 41 yards on eight receptions while the team relied on a 65-play offensive structure. Marvin Harrison Jr., the fourth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has recorded only one catch through the first two weeks of the 2026 season.

The players

Marvin Harrison Jr.

He is a wide receiver who was selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Mike LaFleur

He serves as the head coach for the Arizona Cardinals.

Trey McBride

He is a tight end for the Arizona Cardinals who functions as a primary underneath passing option.

Jacoby Brissett

He is the starting quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals.

Jaxson Smith-Njigba

He is a wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks who recorded three touchdowns against Arizona.

The details

During the Week 2 matchup, quarterback Jacoby Brissett prioritized tight end Trey McBride, while Jaxson Smith-Njigba of the Seattle Seahawks scored three touchdowns. The Cardinals are looking to reset their offensive rhythm after splitting their first two games of the season.

Timeline

  1. The Cardinals defeated the Chargers in Week 1 2026.

  2. The Seahawks defeated the Cardinals 31-7 on September 20, 2026.

  3. Coach Mike LaFleur discussed the team strategy on September 21, 2026.

  4. The Cardinals face the 49ers in Santa Clara in Week 3 2026.

Season Trajectory

The Cardinals' reliance on veteran targets over a high-profile rookie influences their competitive balance as they head into a pivotal divisional matchup. This strategic choice directly impacts their standing as they look to recover from the Week 2 loss against Seattle.

Fantasy managers and observers should note that Trey McBride continues to dominate the team target share with eight receptions in the most recent outing. The upcoming Week 3 game against the San Francisco 49ers will indicate if the team maintains this personnel preference.

The takeaway

Maintaining offensive balance often necessitates spreading targets across multiple receiving threats rather than forcing the ball to one player. Success for the Cardinals likely depends on their ability to integrate various playmakers into their established 65-play rotation.

Further reading

For more news on the team, visit Football.

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