Arizona Cardinals WR Michael Wilson is coming off one of the most promising seasons, establishing himself as a top wideout, and has no concerns heading into the final year of his deal. Wilson is another receiver in the league who is eligible for a new deal, but he’s focused on the upcoming 2026 campaign. The former third-round pick isn’t the only wideout who is looking for a new contract, but other younger receivers like Chris Olave and Puka Nacua are also looking to sign their first extension. It’ll be interesting to see what type of contract he receives, and if it will get done before the 2026 campaign, but his attitude spells good news for the Cardinals’ offense:
“Truthfully, that whole situation isn’t going to dictate my offseason,” Wilson said. “That’s not something that I want to show up to the building with on my mind. I don’t want that to affect how I show up every single day because ultimately that stuff is going to take care of itself.”
During the 2025 season, the receiver hauled in 1,000 yards receiving in 2025, becoming the first Cardinals receiver to do that since DeAndre Hopkins. The future is bright for the wideout, and even has support from Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort, who spoke highly of the offensive weapon. Despite the new coaching changes, Wilson remains excited for the future of this offense that hired Mike LaFleur as their new head coach.
Top Cardinals Star Michael Wilson Shrugs Off Possible Extension Talks
Last year, the Cardinals lost Marvin Harrison Jr. and Zay Jones to injuries during the season, but that didn’t stop the young WR from impacting the offense. Wilson continued to solidify himself as the primary contributor. However, this upcoming campaign could be interesting. QB Jacoby Brissett is looking for a new deal and is holding out of OTA’s until he receives an extension.
If a release happens, all of their focus can finally be on Wilson. The Cardinals selected new QB Carson Beck in this year’s draft, so they can move on from an older Brissett before the season. The plan, however, was to have Brissett and new free agent signee Gardner Minshew as their main two options at the quarterback position until Brissett became disgruntled. Speaking of unhappy players, Arizona has defensive star Josh Sweat holding out, too, so it’s a messy situation they would need to fix first.
How About Harrison Jr?
This is where things can get very interesting. Harrison Jr. is entering a pivotal 2026 season, too. After a down year, the receiver is in a “make-or-break” season, and part of that could be due to Wilson’s emergence as a capable enough weapon to be the WR1 for this group. Still, the former first-round pick is still young, so it was odd to see him a part of trade rumors this offseason.
As crazy as this league is, you can’t predict the future. Although the Cardinals upgraded their offense, selecting RB Jeremiyah Love in the first round of this year’s draft, the future is looking bright for LaFleur’s first season in Arizona. Could the new Wilson extension affect Harrison Jr? It’s possible.
It wouldn’t be sensible to keep two high-paid receivers, especially if Harrison Jr. isn’t playing up to his potential. The hope for him is to see if he can fit his footing in Arizona. However, don’t be surprised if Wilson breaks out for another All-Pro worthy season. He’s speedy, destructive and has been carrying this offense on his back, but with Love and TE Trey McBride backing him, this entire roster is loaded for a generational run this campaign.
