The Kansas City Chiefs reportedly monitored the wide receiver market but were not serious contenders to acquire Marvin Harrison Jr. before the Arizona Cardinals traded the former No. 4 overall pick to the Houston Texans.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler detailed Kansas City's level of interest in Harrison in his latest NFL insider notes alongside Dan Graziano on Wednesday. Despite injuries affecting the Chiefs' receiving corps, the organization apparently did not emerge as a major contender for the 2024 first-round pick.

“The belief among league evaluators we consulted is that Houston didn't have much true, known competition for Marvin Harrison Jr. because of what Texans GM Nick Caserio was willing to give up to get him,” Fowler wrote.

“The inclusion of a 2027 second-round pick was a nonstarter for some prospective suitors.”

Fowler added that the Indianapolis Colts explored Harrison's availability but considered Arizona's asking price too high. Kansas City also monitored the market but ultimately did not seriously pursue a deal.

Chiefs' receiver injuries make Marvin Harrison Jr. trade decision more notable

The Chiefs' interest in receiving help comes amid significant injuries to Patrick Mahomes' offensive weapons.

Wide receiver Tyquan Thornton suffered a serious ankle injury during Kansas City's 30-27 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4 and subsequently landed on injured reserve. Thornton had accumulated 219 receiving yards and two touchdowns before the injury.

Meanwhile, Rashee Rice suffered a hamstring injury during the same matchup and remains questionable for Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The injuries have left Kansas City facing uncertainty at receiver despite its undefeated start.

Article Continues Below

Nevertheless, the Chiefs apparently were unwilling to match Houston's offer.

According to Fowler, multiple teams believed Harrison's declining production and inconsistent effort on routes reduced his trade value to approximately a fourth-round selection.

Houston ultimately acquired Harrison and a 2027 seventh-round pick in exchange for second- and sixth-round selections in the same draft.

The Chiefs (4-0) will return from their Week 5 bye when they host the winless Chargers (0-5) on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET on CBS.