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Marvin Harrison Jr.’s frustration with Brissett isn’t just about the holdout

Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images
Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images
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Marvin Harrison Jr. has shown support for Jacoby Brissett’s decision to hold out, but he’s also admitted it’s not doing him any favours.

While his comments were measured, the real issue is a familiar one: Harrison is spending another year dealing with instability at quarterback.

Speaking about their connection, Harrison said: “Not much. He’s got to be here to do that,” before adding that he understands Brissett needs to do what’s best for himself and his family.

With Brissett sitting out voluntary sessions in pursuit of a new contract, Harrison has been working with Gardner Minshew and rookie Carson Beck instead.

San Francisco 49ers v Arizona Cardinals
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Marvin Harrison Jr. is frustrated with the QB situation

Harrison came in as a top draft pick, Biletnikoff winner, and Hall of Fame’s son. His first two seasons fell short of that billing, though not through much fault of his own.

Kyler Murray’s injuries and inconsistency, then Brissett’s mediocrity, gave him no stable play to grow alongside. This year, Arizona has branded 2026 as a “bridge year” for the quarterback position, which is front-office speak for “we’re not building around you just yet.”

Harrison’s comments about chemistry weren’t just offhand. The connection between a receiver and quarterback – the timing, the trust, especially on back-shoulder throws – is built during exactly the kind of offseason sessions Brissett is missing. And when your quarterback isn’t an established star, those reps matter even more.

Harrison is also learning a new offence under Mike LaFleur, and skipping this part of the calendar isn’t what Year 3 needs. The holdout may be a short-term issue, but Arizona’s bigger problem might be spending part of Harrison’s prime without a clear plan at quarterback.