C.J. Stroud Backs Texans Trade for Marvin Harrison Jr.

The Houston Texans are adding a familiar target for quarterback C.J. Stroud after acquiring wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. from the Arizona Cardinals on Oct. 11, 2026. Stroud welcomed the move following Houston's 26-3 victory over the Tennessee Titans, highlighting their previous experience together at Ohio State and his confidence in Harrison's ability to contribute.

According to Sports Illustrated, Houston sent a 2027 second-round pick and a 2027 sixth-round pick to Arizona in exchange for Harrison and a 2027 seventh-round selection. The transaction gives Stroud another receiving option with whom he already shares an on-field history.

Harrison, the former No. 4 overall pick, had recorded five receptions for 85 yards and one touchdown across four games for the Cardinals during the 2026 season, according to the report. His arrival in Houston offers an opportunity to reunite with a quarterback who played alongside him in college.

Stroud praised Harrison's receiving skills and route running when discussing the acquisition after the trade became public.

"I think he brings a dynamic playmaker, somebody who runs great routes and can catch pretty much any ball. I'm super excited to get to work with him," said C.J. Stroud, Texans quarterback.

The two played together at Ohio State for two years. Stroud said his familiarity with Harrison extended beyond football, describing the receiver's work ethic and personality as qualities that made him an appealing addition to Houston's roster.

"I loved him in college. He's probably the hardest worker I've ever been around in my life. And then there's who he is off the field.

He's a great dude, a quiet guy, but you definitely feel his presence. I'm excited to get him here, get him learning and get him around the other guys. I think it's perfect for him.

Fresh starts are good, so I'm excited to have him with us," said C.J. Stroud, Texans quarterback.

Stroud also confirmed that he had discussed Harrison with people involved in the team's decision-making process. His comments offered insight into how his prior experience with the receiver contributed to the trade discussions.

"Yeah, I had some conversations with different people, just telling them who he is as a person and a player and what I liked about him when I played with him. I thought our front office did a great job allowing me to be part of it," said C.J. Stroud, Texans quarterback.

Despite welcoming the addition, Stroud said he did not intend to impose specific expectations on Harrison before their reunion in Houston. He emphasized a step-by-step approach as the Texans prepared for their next game.

"Just being himself. I'm not an expectations-type person when it comes to others or even myself. I take things one at a time.

The next thing I'm focused on is correcting things from this game," said C.J. Stroud, Texans quarterback.

Houston's acquisition followed its 26-3 win over division rival Tennessee in Week 5. According to Sports Illustrated, the Texans were preparing for a Week 6 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London, where Harrison could have an opportunity to join the offense alongside his former college teammate.