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Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is headed to the Houston Texans in a stunning midseason trade that reunites him with former Ohio State teammate C.J. Stroud. The deal was announced Sunday after Houston defeated the Tennessee Titans 26-3, giving the Texans their first victory of the season.
Cardinals Make Blockbuster Marvin Harrison Jr. Trade
Houston sent Arizona 2027 second- and sixth-round draft picks in exchange for Harrison. The Texans also received a 2027 seventh-round selection as part of the agreement, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Texans coach DeMeco Ryans revealed the trade at the end of his postgame news conference, creating one of the most surprising moments of the NFL weekend. Harrison was inactive for the Cardinals’ game against the Detroit Lions while the transaction was being completed. Sources also told ESPN that he did not attend Arizona’s team meetings Saturday night.
The trade immediately creates a compelling connection between Harrison and Stroud. The two players starred together at Ohio State from 2021 through 2022 and were both named All-Americans in 2022. Houston hopes their familiarity can help Harrison reach the elite level many expected when he entered the 2024 NFL draft as the No. 4 overall pick.
A Powerful Reunion With C.J. Stroud
Stroud expressed excitement about the move and praised Harrison’s talent, preparation and character. The Texans quarterback described his former teammate as a dynamic playmaker who runs outstanding routes and can catch almost any pass.
“I loved him in college. He’s probably the hardest worker I’ve ever been around in my life,” Stroud said.
Stroud also revealed that the Texans’ front office consulted him before completing the trade. He provided insight into Harrison’s personality and abilities, giving Houston valuable background before making the deal.
That communication could prove important as Harrison learns a new offense during the season. His existing relationship with Stroud may help shorten the adjustment period, particularly in crucial passing situations and red-zone opportunities.
Why the Cardinals Trade Matters for Both Teams
Harrison has recorded five catches for 85 yards and one touchdown on 12 targets through four games this season. He was the fifth-most-targeted player in Arizona’s offense, trailing Trey McBride, Michael Wilson, Kendrick Bourne and running back Jeremiyah Love in targets.
Those numbers are modest compared with the expectations surrounding the former Ohio State star. The Cardinals selected Harrison to become a centerpiece of their passing attack, but his limited involvement has fueled questions about his role and the direction of Arizona’s offense.
For Houston, the move arrives at a critical point. The Texans entered the season with Super Bowl aspirations but opened 0-4. Their victory over Tennessee offered a much-needed boost, and adding a talented young receiver could provide another spark as the team attempts to rescue its season.
- Houston’s gain: The Texans add a high-upside receiver with elite size, route-running ability and a strong connection to Stroud.
- Arizona’s return: The Cardinals receive additional future draft capital while moving on from a player who had been underused early in the season.
- Immediate impact: Harrison’s familiarity with Stroud could allow him to contribute quickly once he joins the Texans.
Contract Details and Next Steps
Harrison is scheduled to earn $4 million in 2026 and $5.62 million in 2027. His $22.5 million signing bonus has already been paid by the Cardinals. Houston will also face a decision on Harrison’s fifth-year option after the upcoming season.
Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. welcomed the addition after recording three sacks against Tennessee. Anderson called Harrison a super-athletic and dynamic receiver and said he was eager to see what the wideout could accomplish with Stroud.
The Cardinals now turn their attention to rebuilding their offensive identity and maximizing the value of the draft selections received in the trade. The Texans, meanwhile, are betting that a familiar quarterback-receiver partnership can transform their passing game and spark a remarkable turnaround.
FAQs About the Cardinals Trade
Who did the Cardinals trade to the Texans?
Arizona traded wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. to the Houston Texans.
What did Houston give up for Marvin Harrison Jr.?
The Texans sent the Cardinals 2027 second- and sixth-round draft picks. Houston also received a 2027 seventh-round selection in the deal.
How does Harrison know C.J. Stroud?
Harrison and Stroud were teammates at Ohio State from 2021 through 2022 and were both All-Americans in 2022.
What were Harrison’s statistics before the trade?
Through four games, Harrison had five receptions for 85 yards and one touchdown on 12 targets.
