On Wednesday, the New York Jets agreed to terms with former Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman. Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the deal for the speedy wideout is one year at $6.5 million.
Since being drafted 56th overall by the Chiefs in 2019, the former Georgia standout was an integral weapon in Andy Reid’s offense.
After playing in 49 of 51 games in his first three seasons, injuries only allowed Hardman to appear in eight regular season games in 2022, along with one playoff game.
Despite playing in only eight games, the talented slot wideout totaled six touchdowns (four receiving, two rushing). In four seasons playing with two-time Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes, Hardman caught 151 passes for 2,088 yards and 16 receiving touchdowns, while adding for 125 yards and two scores on the ground. On special teams, he further showcased his skills, amassing 555 yards and a touchdown on punt returns, while also posting 927 yards and a score on kickoff returns.
In 10 career playoff games with the Chiefs, Hardman hauled in 22 receptions for 226 yards and two touchdowns, while also turning 11 rushes into 110 yards and a rushing score.
The Jets, who inked former Packers wideout Allen Lazard to a four-year deal on March 14, continue to bolster a receiving corp that already consists of last season’s Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson, Corey Davis and Elijah Moore. The addition of Hardman likely signals that either Davis or Moore could be included in a package for quarterback Aaron Rodgers, once the heavily discussed trade takes place.
