Former Georgia WR Mecole Hardman traded by New York Jets
Former Georgia WR Mecole Hardman is going back to Kansas City.
James Palmer of the NFL Network broke the news Wednesday that the New York Jets are trading Hardman to the Chiefs.
Chiefs trading for WR Mecole Hardman. (via @JamesPalmerTV) pic.twitter.com/uz1TFQZ5PA
— NFL (@NFL) October 18, 2023
Hardman spent his first 4 professional seasons with the Chiefs. He signed with the Jets in March, but things did not work out. In 5 games this season, Hardman has been targeted just 3 times. He recorded a 6-yard reception, his only catch of 2023, in the Jets’ loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 17.
Last week, Hardman publicly expressed hope that his situation would change.
“I just want to play, get on the field. Whether it’s here or somewhere else, it’s not up to me,” Hardman said. “It depends. If it works out for both sides, I guess, I don’t know. I’ve never been part of this so I don’t know.”
Hardman is sure to be welcomed back in Kansas City, where he played in 57 regular-season games over the past 4 seasons, making 26 starts. With the Chiefs, Hardman has 151 career receptions for 2,088 yards and 16 touchdowns. He has also rushed 20 times for 125 yards and 2 scores.
Kansas City selected Hardman No. 56 overall in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He made the Pro Bowl and was named second-team All-Pro as a rookie. Hardman collected 2 Super Bowl rings in his first stint with the Chiefs.