Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
GLENDALE – With Marvin Harrison Jr. set to miss the the first game of his career on Sunday, the Arizona Cardinals will need to rely on third-year wide receiver Michael Wilson to finally take the anticipated leap. The former 2023 third-round pick has been consistent through his first two years, recording back-to-back 500+ yard season. However, Wilson’s third year has been slightly disappointing, with other targets like Harrison or tight end Trey McBride taking the spotlight.
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With Harrison out, the 25-year-old will be put into a place he isn’t familiar with, being the team’s WR1. When speaking to the media on Friday, Wilson didn’t want to make the opportunity a bigger deal than it is. Despite that, Week 11 is a massive chance for Wilson to take a necessary leap into being a creditable receiving threat.
Sep 25, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Michael Wilson (14) against the Seattle Seahawks at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Is it make or break for Wilson on Sunday?
Wilson has 12 games with 50+ receiving yards, half of those came before Harrison was drafted. Ironically, his career-high of 95 receiving yards came on the final game of the 2023 season, which was a last-second loss to the Seattle Seahawks to secure the fourth overall pick and Marvin Harrison Jr. in the 2024 draft.
In his rookie season, Arizona didn’t have a true WR1 with Marquise Brown missing multiple games. Wilson took the opportunity to average a career-high in yards per reception (14.9), yards per game (43.5) and targets per game (9.7).
Jul 24, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Michael Wilson (14) and Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
At 6’2, 213 pounds, Wilson has the height and speed to be a much more effective pass catcher than he has in his career. With backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett under center, the production has improved. In the last four weeks, Wilson has recorded 77.4% of his season yards, going from just over 10 receiving yards per game to over 40 with Brissett.
Harrison’s absence and the San Francisco 49ers likely double covering McBride, Wilson will have the best opportunity of his career to record his first 100+ receiving yard game with the Cardinals.
Cardinals defense in trouble with multiple starters on Week 11 injury report
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
