If there's one single reason that can be highlighted to explain why Marvin Harrison Jr. may not be the first wide receiver selected in the 2024 NFL draft, it could be his lack of top-end speed.
Per The Athletic's Bruce Feldman, an offensive assistant coach in the NFL said Harrison is "not gonna run by people" and he "comes across as casual a little bit" after skipping all of the pre-draft testing drills.
"Marvin is really good," the coach explained. "Polished. If you're looking to pick on something, he's not gonna run by people. They're gonna squat on him at the top of the break. He's good. I just wished he did the testing. He comes across as casual a little bit."
Harrison took an unusual approach by opting not to take part in any on-field testing during the NFL scouting combine or Ohio State's pro day. He did get his measurements taken in Indianapolis.
Charles Robinson @CharlesRobinson2024 <a href="">#NFLCombine</a> key measurements thread...<br><br>1. <a href="">#OhioState</a> WR Marvin Harrison Jr.<br><br>Height: 6-3 2/8<br>Weight: 209<br>Arm: 31.88<br>Hand: 9.50<br>Wingspan: 77.25
Any questions about Harrison's speed and ability to create yards after the catch was seemingly answered last season.
Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus noted Harrison averaged 6.4 yards after the catch in 2023, an increase of more than two yards from the previous season (4.2).
In B/R's scouting report for Harrison, Derrik Klassen noted Harrison has a slight body that makes him only an "average YAC threat" in the NFL. This didn't prevent B/R's NFL scouting department from ranking Harrison as the No. 1 overall player in the 2024 class.
Davante Adams only ran a 4.56 in the 40 when he was a prospect. It hasn't impacted his ability to be arguably the best receiver of this generation.
Even if Harrison doesn't have elite top-end speed, his ability to run precise routes, create separation with his body and footwork, and reliable hands make him a special prospect.
