By Rory Robinson
CJ Stroud believes Marvin Harrison Jr is undoubtedly the best wide receiver in the 2024 NFL Draft, having played alongside him at Ohio State.
Facing a grilling from reporters about his ex-teammate on Monday, Stroud did not feel the need to defend Harrison's talents. Instead, he encouraged the press to review the past games themselves, arguing that film of Harrison would provide all necessary insights.
"Put on the tape. He's [Harrison] done it from really his freshman year, his true freshman year, to now. I think I read something like he's NFL ready, but other guys have more potential. That makes no sense," said Stroud.
"Like, what? If you're 'NFL ready,' how is that not potential? You want longevity, you want somebody who has been doing it. For him, that's what he sleeps, eats and breathes. He's a worthy talent, but his work ethic and how he gravitates that room."
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Stroud, who scooped the 2023 NFL Rookie of the Year title with the Houston Texans, has opened up about how he pushed Harrison Jr to elevate his game during their final season with the Buckeyes, especially after Jaxon Smith-Njigba suffered an injury.
The setback for the team's offense meant that the young WR had to rise to the occasion as a leader, a role he embraced. Although not naturally outspoken, Harrison found his voice as the season progressed, rounding out his profile as a complete prospect.
Stroud shared his pride in their joint development as they pursued their NFL aspirations and voiced his hope to team up with his old friend in the big league, though he conceded it might not happen soon. The Texans' first chance to pick is at No.42 in the second round, having traded away their No.22 and 232 picks in the first round to the Minnesota Vikings for No.42, 188 picks, and a second-rounder in 2025.
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"I probably won't get that opportunity for a while, but I'm super proud of him," Stroud continued. "Whoever's up there, man, be smart. Don’t be dumb. Don't think too hard."
In 2022, Harrison Jr was a standout, snagging 77 receptions for 1,263 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns from Stroud, topping the team charts in all three areas and helping the young QB earn the Big 10 Player of the Year accolade.
The following year, despite a slight dip in Harrison's numbers to 67 catches for 1,211 yards, he managed to score an additional receiving touchdown, taking his total to 14, and even added a rushing touchdown. His stellar performance last season bagged him the prestigious Fred Biletnikoff Award for the best WR, offensive player of the year honours, and a second selection as an All-American.
Despite being widely recognised as the top wide receiver in the draft, Harrison Jr opted out of participating in workouts at the NFL Combine, giving other prospects a chance to boost their draft standings.
He refrained from partaking in any drills, including the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, broad jump, or other physical tests, echoing another top draft prospect in Williams, who solely engaged with teams that might draft him during his scheduled NFL pro day.
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story.
