C.J. Stroud Urges NFL Teams Not to Overthink Drafting Marvin Harrison Jr.

C.J. Stroud, the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year, has a clear message for teams considering drafting his former Ohio State teammate Marvin Harrison Jr.: "Don't be dumb."

Harrison, a wide receiver, is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. Many experts expect him to be a top-five pick, with the Arizona Cardinals, who hold the first non-quarterback selection, as a potential landing spot.

Stroud, who played with Harrison at Ohio State before being drafted second overall by the Houston Texans in 2023, believes that Harrison is "NFL-ready" and possesses all the intangibles that teams covet. "He has elite physical traits, impressive production, and a strong work ethic," Stroud said.

Last season, Stroud challenged Harrison to step up as a leader after Jaxon Smith-Njigba's departure, and Harrison responded well. He finished the 2022 season with 77 receptions for 1,263 yards and 14 touchdowns, earning the Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top receiver. Harrison's numbers remained impressive in 2023, even with a different quarterback throwing to him.

Why this matters: The success of early draft picks can have a significant impact on a team's future. Stroud's firsthand experience playing with Harrison and his strong endorsement could influence teams' decisions on draft day.

While Stroud would love the opportunity to play with Harrison again in the NFL, he acknowledges that it may not happen for a while. "I would love to have him on my team," Stroud said. "But I know that's not going to happen for a long time."

For now, Stroud's advice to teams with the chance to draft Harrison is simple: "Don't think too hard. He's been ready since he stepped on the field as a freshman."

Key Takeaways

• C.J. Stroud urges teams not to "be dumb" in drafting Marvin Harrison Jr.
• Harrison is widely projected as a top-5 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
• Stroud believes Harrison is "NFL-ready" with elite traits and production.
• Harrison had a standout 2022 season, winning the Biletnikoff Award.
• Stroud would love to play with Harrison again, but acknowledges it's unlikely.