As the New York Jets patiently wait for the Aaron Rodgers situation to resolve, the organization made news on Wednesday. They added another weapon for their likely future quarterback. According to multiple reports, the Jets are adding a Super Bowl-winning player to their wide receiver’s room.
Former Kansas City wideout Mecole Hardman is signing a one-year deal with Gang Green. Hardman has a chance to earn up to $6.5 million, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport. The two-time Super Bowl champion leaves a talented receiver room for one with a lot of potential in New York.
Hardman joins a wide receiver corps that includes Garrett Wilson, Elijah Moore, Allen Lazard, Corey Davis, and Denzel Mims. Though Davis, the elder statesman at the wide receiver position figures to be a cap casualty. Much like Braxton Berrios, who Hardman was very likely brought in to replace.
The 25-year-old Hardman was drafted by the Chiefs with the 56th overall pick in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He entered the league after starring with the Georgia Bulldogs and quickly became a go-to weapon for Patrick Mahomes. Playing in 26 games across four seasons with Kansas City, Hardman hauled in 151 receptions for 2,088 yards with 18 total touchdowns.
Hardman played in just eight games with the Chiefs this season, as he dealt with an abdominal injury. He was activated off injured reserve and returned for the AFC Championship game, only to re-injure his abdomen and be deactivated for Super Bowl LVII.