I Think I'm Becoming "Cardinals Curious" ft. Jourdan Rodrigue

Matt Harmon suggests that the New York offensive scheme under Nathaniel Hackett was largely dictated by Aaron Rodgers, which resulted in a more static alignment and usage pattern for receivers compared to previous systems.

Matt Harmon notes that Davante Adams is utilized as a threat in the slot, contributing to the team's ability to manipulate defensive spacing.

Matt Harmon is high on Elijah Higgins, identifying him as an under-the-radar player and a key component of the Cardinals' 13 personnel scheme. As a former receiver, he serves as a 'clear-out' option with proven production, notably in Week 17 against the Falcons.

Matt Harmon notes that Garrett Wilson felt empowered by the dynamic, varied alignments he played in during his rookie season. Reception Perception data indicates that Wilson's route and alignment usage became significantly more static after moving into the Aaron Rodgers-led offense in New York.

Matt Harmon highlights Jake Ferguson as a tight end capable of creating mismatches when aligned on the outside.

Matt Harmon cites Jimmy Horn Jr. as an example of a receiver tasked with running 'sacrificial routes' to clear out space and create leverage for teammates, a key tactical element in modern offensive systems.

Matt Harmon is buying into Marvin Harrison Jr. as a key Cardinals offensive piece. While previously deployed rigidly as an X receiver, his role is expected to evolve into a more modern, motion-heavy scheme. Harmon defends his route profile, noting his excellence on digs, slants, curls, and outs—routes prioritized in this offense—and expects increased productivity as the team's quarterbacks are more likely to target these routes than Kyler Murray. He is part of a top-three receiver group alongside Michael Wilson and Kendrick Bourne that enables 11 personnel, though Jourdan Rodrigue notes he is still learning his specific fit within the scheme.

Jourdan Rodrigue notes that Matthew Stafford displays elite vision and improvisation, specifically citing a play where he hit Puka Nacua over the top on the fly after recognizing the receiver had gained separation despite an initial clearing route assignment.

Matt Harmon and Jourdan Rodrigue highlight Michael Wilson's untapped upside, citing his 'quietly great' performance in the second half of last season as proof of concept. Wilson is a strong fit for the X-receiver archetype, similar to Tee Higgins or Terry McLaurin, and his production increased when he shifted from Z to X. Harmon expects him to continue ascending as he fits well into the team's route tree—specifically on digs, outs, and curls—and his ability to handle complex movement roles will help unlock the passing game.

Puka Nacua is recognized for his elite development under Mike LaFleur, with Jourdan Rodrigue citing his 'baptism by fire' rookie season. Nacua is a player who requires constant defensive awareness; he demonstrated the ability to execute high-effort routes like digs out of cross-formation motion to clear space while remaining a primary target for Matthew Stafford.

Matt Harmon identifies Terrence Ferguson as a vital 'clear-out' threat in 13 personnel packages. Despite catching only 11 passes last year, his alignment as a tight end on the outside forces defenses to widen, creating valuable space for teammates in the seam and intermediate areas.

Matt Harmon notes that the Cardinals possess a deep tight end group capable of running 13 personnel effectively once Tip Reiman returns to full health and productivity, noting that while he has pass-catching ability, he is primarily utilized as a blocker.

Matt Harmon views Trey McBride as a 'plus' player and a mathematical mismatch who serves as the 'do-it-all' tight end in the Cardinals' offense. His presence forces defensive movement and prevents the offensive 'sameness' that previously plagued the team. Harmon notes McBride had significant success in the previous scheme and expects him to continue being a focal point, as his versatility creates space for teammates.