Hardman’s journey with the Chiefs has been a rollercoaster
As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for their playoff run and aim for a historic three-peat, some players could be facing their final postseason with the team. One of the names being speculated for an offseason departure is wide receiver Mecole Hardman, who has had a mixed impact since joining the Chiefs.
Hardman has struggled with injuries this season, recording just 90 yards in 12 appearances. He hasn’t played since November 29 due to a knee injury and could potentially miss the Chiefs‘ upcoming Divisional Round playoff game against the Houston Texans.
With his limited production this year, some are predicting that the Chiefs may look to move on from the speedy receiver once the season concludes.
Injury concerns
Braden Holecek from Fansided suggested that Hardman’s future with the Chiefs is uncertain, especially given his injury history and the team’s evolving roster. Despite being a key member of Kansas City’s Super Bowl-winning team in 2022, Hardman has been surpassed in many areas by other players, including the team’s new, younger talent.
“Hardman has been replaced comfortably as the team’s kick and punt returner,” Holecek wrote. “And with the potential emergence of Xavier Worthy, the Chiefs may look to sign more talent through free agency and the draft, rather than retaining Hardman.”
Worthy, a 2024 first-round pick, is expected to bring a more well-rounded skill set to the position. Known for his pass-catching ability, Worthy is seen as a solid option for quick, designed touches, similar to the role Hardman once filled. However, he is considered more versatile and polished as a pass receiver.
Hardman’s journey with the Chiefs has been a rollercoaster. Drafted in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Hardman quickly became a fan favorite, earning a Pro Bowl nod as a rookie and scoring 16 career touchdowns in six seasons with the team.
His most notable contribution came during the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LIV victory, where he scored the game-winning walk-off touchdown in overtime against the San Francisco 49ers.
However, his role in Kansas City has diminished since that stellar season. Despite a brief stint with the New York Jets, where he struggled to make a significant impact, Hardman was re-acquired by the Chiefs in a mid-season trade in 2023. Upon his return, he recorded 14 catches for 118 yards in six regular-season games, but his performance has not been enough to keep him in the Chiefs’ long-term plans.
