When the Arizona Cardinals drafted Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, it came as no surprise. The organization lacked a clear number one receiver and a true playmaker on offense. Quarterback Kyler Murray was coming off a knee injury and the team wanted to surround him with more weapons, with the goal of increasing his performance and statistical output.

The results were positive as Harrison Jr. ended his rookie campaign catching 62 receptions for 885 yards and eight touchdowns, a 14.3 yards per catch average. Not only that, but the youthful 22-year-old son of former Indianapolis Colts Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, tied the franchise’s rookie touchdown record and came in second in both receptions and receiving yards. The touchdown total was tied with both Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, both legendary players for the Cardinals. The yardage and reception totals were trailed only by Boldin; that is solid company for the bright young star.

Despite what seems like living up to the high standard set by his father, many fans on social media ultimately called him a “bust” and kept comparing his rookie year to that of New York Giants receiver Malik Nabers. Even though Harrison Jr. was picked two selections earlier, Nabers’ statistics were much better. Nabers caught 109 receptions for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns, a 11.0 yards per catch average. Should fans be questioning the Cardinals pick due to losing this statistical battle?

Honestly, I don’t think so. The yards per catch by Harrison Jr. is better along with his touchdown numbers, earning one more than Nabers. Fans will always have high expectations but sometimes it is okay to admit that it takes some time to gel, and that is perfectly okay. In addition, both receivers bring unique skillsets to their franchises and were both unique difference makers. It should not be frown upon to admit that both of the athletes were successful this season and hopefully continue to be.

Something interesting that came out of this social media debate was how Harrison Jr’s rookie year numbers compared with his father were actually very eerily similar.

Like father, like son

Marvin Harrison Jr.'s rookie season:

Receptions: 63
Receiving Yards: 885
Receiving TDs: 8

Marvin Harrison Sr.'s rookie season:

Receptions: 64
Receiving Yards: 836
Receiving TDs: 8 pic.twitter.com/YMjkOgBk3q

— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) January 6, 2025

At the end of the day, there is no denying that selecting Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick was the correct one. He is a foundational player who performed at a high enough level that should increase significantly in year two. Both him and Nabers produced in 2024 for their respective teams, and that is all the organization can ask for with their high draft selections. The only thing that is disappointing is how players are often compared to one another rather than celebrated for their accomplishments.