The Arizona Cardinals' challenging 2025 NFL season is drawing to a close, yet a major focus in Week 17 is on the health of their star rookie, wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. As the Cardinals prepare to host the Cincinnati Bengals, uncertainty clouds whether the first-year player will take the field, following another week marked by injury concerns.
Injury Status and Cautious Approach
Marvin Harrison Jr. is officially listed as questionable for today's game due to a persistent heel problem. This injury first emerged back in Week 13, not long after he recovered from a bout of appendicitis that had previously sidelined him. The Cardinals' medical and coaching staff have adopted a notably protective strategy, carefully managing his workload rather than declaring him out for the season.
This past week repeated a now-familiar routine for the young receiver. Harrison was a limited participant in all three practice sessions, leading to the 'questionable' designation once more. The team's priority is clear: safeguarding his long-term future is more critical than pushing for production in a late-season game with playoff implications already gone.
Limited Impact and Fantasy Football Outlook
When Harrison has played through this injury, his impact has been significantly reduced. Last week serves as a prime example. While he was active for the game, he was on the field for only 29 offensive snaps, which amounted to just over half of the team's total plays. His statistical output mirrored this limited role, with a mere one reception as he remained a secondary option in the offensive scheme.
From a fantasy football perspective, the outlook for Harrison in Week 17 is bleak. Several factors combine to make him a high-risk, low-reward option:
- Managed Snaps: Even if he plays, his time on the field is expected to be restricted.
- Injury Concern: The heel issue is not fully healed, affecting his explosiveness and route running.
- Tough Matchup: The Cincinnati Bengals' defense has been stout against wide receivers all season, allowing one of the lowest fantasy point totals to the position.
Fantasy managers competing in championship matches this week are strongly advised to look for safer, volume-based alternatives. Harrison currently ranks as no more than a fringe flex play, with his ceiling severely limited by the circumstances.
What to Expect Against the Bengals
Reports from insiders like Adam Schefter suggest that Harrison is likely to be active for the game. However, the big condition is that his involvement will be heavily monitored and controlled. The Cardinals view him as a cornerstone for their rebuilding efforts, and protecting his health is the unequivocal priority in this otherwise meaningless December contest.
Fans and analysts should anticipate a cautious, measured role for the rookie if he suits up. A breakout performance or a heavy target share is highly improbable. The team's strategy will focus on getting him through the game without aggravating the heel injury, rather than force-feeding him the ball.
In summary, while Marvin Harrison Jr. will probably dress for the Week 17 finale against the Cincinnati Bengals, expectations for his performance must be kept firmly in check. The story of his rookie season is now one of preservation, setting the stage for a fully healthy and impactful 2026 campaign.
