Marvin Harrison Jr. is already a standout player in soccer…and he's just getting started.
The Ohio State wide receiver is one of the most exciting prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft class and is expected to be taken in the early first round on April 25th, but the big day will be tough. Open your heart to people in front of you.
Harrison Jr. said he is “definitely excited” to hear his name called on draft day, and how the prestigious opportunity to move his career to the NFL is a “process” to accomplishing his long-term plans in the NFL. He explained exclusively to PEOPLE that it is part of the Sports.
“My ultimate goal is to be one of the best soccer players to play, so this is just another step in that direction,” says the 21-year-old star. “I’m really grateful to be able to hopefully be one of the top picks and continue my football career.”
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The newest addition to New Balance's rich roster of athletes, Harrison Jr. was born to play football. The two-time unanimous All-American is the son of former NFL star, Super Bowl champion and Pro Football Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison Jr.
Marvin's 13-year career with the Indianapolis Colts was remarkable, in part due to his many accomplishments with then-quarterback Peyton Manning. The legendary quarterback threw Marvin 114 touchdowns, the most by a quarterback-receiver combination in NFL history.
While fans expect Harrison Jr. to follow in his father's football footsteps, the Ohio State Buckeye said, “I can't say there's any added pressure being the son.” He explains, “I have high standards for myself, so naturally my goals are very high.”
As a student-athlete who has previously stated that he prioritizes academics as well as athletics, Harrison Jr. has proven that to be true on and off the field. He has earned numerous accolades and honors throughout his college career.
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In 2023, Harrison Jr. won the Biletnikoff Trophy as the nation's top wide receiver and was a Heisman Trophy finalist. He finished the year with 67 catches, 1,211 yards, and 14 touchdowns, one of the best single seasons in school history.
His father has shared some memorable advice with Harrison Jr. throughout his career.
“Keep working hard every day,” Harrison Jr. began rattling off a list of advice from his father. “Never look too forward. Do something. Don't look back. Take it one day at a time and do as much work as you can.”
The latter is a bit of advice for Harrison Jr., who is actively training for the NFL Draft. While he says it was “always a dream” to play in the NFL, he tries to focus on what's in front of him.
“I always worked hard and soccer took me to destinations, but I never really thought too far ahead of myself and always tried to take it one day at a time. I just go from there. ” he says.
Provided by new balance
His current focus is helping New Balance build on its unique footprint as it launches its first product in the American football space. “Being with New Balance allows me to inspire young people and give back to so many communities,” he says of why he signed with the brand.
New Balance aims to change the perception that players have to give up fit and feel when it comes to cleats, and believes that performance shoes can combine comfort and performance, something Harrison Jr. looks for in the perfect shoe. It proves that there is.
“I have to do a lot of things that I have to do to play. I don't want to jeopardize my position. I have to play, run fast, change direction and still be comfortable.” he explains. “I think New Balance cleats do a great job of allowing me to maintain a high level of performance while remaining comfortable.”
