Cardinals GM Defends Marvin Harrison Jr. Trade as 'Best for the Team'

Arizona Cardinals General Manager Monti Ossenfort addressed the trade of wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. to the Houston Texans on Monday, characterizing the decision as one made in the best interest of the team.

"Ultimately, we have to do what is best for our football team and that will always be the driving factor," Ossenfort said in a statement. "We are extremely grateful to Marvin for what he has contributed to our organization and wish him the very best as he moves forward in his career."

The trade, which had been somewhat anticipated after Harrison was informed he would be dealt, sent the wide receiver to the Texans in exchange for a 2027 second-round and seventh-round pick. The Cardinals also sent a 2027 sixth-round selection as part of the deal.

While Ossenfort did not elaborate on the specific reasons behind the trade, reports had indicated that Harrison, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 draft, was unhappy with a reduced role in the Cardinals' offense. This season, Harrison had accumulated five catches for 85 yards and one touchdown.

Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett confirmed he learned of the trade on Saturday from head coach Mike LaFleur and Harrison himself. Brissett acknowledged the personal impact of such business decisions. "As much as everyone wants to say, ‘It’s a business, it’s a business,’ that doesn’t make it easy," Brissett was quoted as saying. "It’s someone I’ll know I’ll miss … and I’m sure a lot of us are rooting for Marv."

Harrison concludes his time with the Cardinals having played in 33 games, recording 108 receptions for 1,578 yards and 13 touchdowns.