Marvin Harrison Jr. is leaving Ohio State and heading to the 2024 NFL Draft. That’s not a surprising announcement, knowing that he’s a projected top-five pick.
He’s expected to end up with a team like the Chicago Bears or Arizona Cardinals. However, don’t rule out the Indianapolis Colts trading up to get the wide receiver.
The Colts, who almost made the playoffs this season, are building around franchise quarterback Anthony Richardson. He and Harrison could form a superstar duo for years to come in Indy.
Will Marvin Harrison Jr. Wind Up with the Indianapolis Colts?
Spectacular Career at Ohio State
During his three-year stay at Ohio State, Harrison was “must-see” TV every Saturday. The two-time All-American caught 155 passes for 2,613 yards and 31 touchdowns.
Harrison is coming off a great 2023 season with the Buckeyes. He had 67 receptions for 1,211 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also had a pair of rushing attempts for 26 yards (13 yards per carry) and a touchdown.
Harrison was a Heisman Trophy finalist. He finished fourth in voting behind quarterbacks Jayden Daniels (LSU), Michael Penix Jr. (Washington), and Bo Nix (Oregon).
His Dad is a Big Deal in Indianapolis
Many Colts fans would love to see Harrison Jr. in a blue and white uniform. It would give them a sense of nostalgia. His father, of course, Marvin Harrison, is a Colts legend who played his entire 13-year career with the franchise.
Indianapolis selected Harrison Sr. in the first round of the 1996 NFL Draft. The eight-time Pro Bowler later helped the Colts beat Chicago in Super Bowl XLI.
Harrison played 11 years with Peyton Manning. They formed one of the greatest quarterback-receiver combos in league history.
Harrison retired after the 2008 season. He made the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016.
Harrison Jr. Would Be the Perfect Addition to the Colts
It’s almost guaranteed that Harrison Jr. will be a top-five pick. With that said, the Colts can’t draft him without trading up.
The team currently owns the 15th overall pick. Harrison won’t be available at that spot unless he has an Aaron Rodgers-type of slide. That’s likely not going to happen.
The Colts would have to give up a boatload of picks to move up and land Harrison. Yet, such a move could be worth it.
Harrison is considered the best non-quarterback in the draft. Some experts believe he’s the most talented overall prospect. The 6-foot-4, 205-pounder has size, speed, and is an excellent route-runner. He has everything needed to become a star NFL receiver.
Richardson missed most of this season after suffering a shoulder injury. He’ll return to the field next season and will need as many offensive weapons as possible. Harrison, along with Michael Pittman Jr. (if he re-signs) Josh Downs, and Jonathan Taylor would give Richardson a dangerous supporting cast for sure.
However, Colts general manager Chris Ballard is known for trading down in the draft and not up. He didn’t trade up for a quarterback like Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud last year so he likely won’t trade up for a wide receiver. While Harrison playing for his father’s team would be a cool story, there’s a slim chance it will happen.
Main Photo Credit: Adam Cairns/USA TODAY NETWORK
