Receiver Mecole Hardman Expects Healthy Start to Jets' Tenure
Mecole Hardman does not foresee the injury being a factor when he first steps on the field for the New York Jets.
In February, the Kansas City Chiefs’ former second-round draft pick underwent surgery to repair a core body injury that had landed Hardman on injured reserve for the second half of the 2022 regular season and also caused the receiver to miss Super Bowl LVII.
The Jets announced that they had signed the speedy free-agent wide receiver, who also possesses kick return ability, on March 23. Hardman’s one-year contract is worth up to $6.5 million according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.
Hardman addressed his surgery recovery status during an introductory press briefing.
“I’m definitely on the right track. Probably ahead of schedule right now as we speak,” said the Jets’ newest free-agent signee. “Hopefully I’ll be fully healthy before OTAs even start.”
In what was the final year of his rookie deal, Hardman went on injured reserve after missing the Chiefs’ Week 10 win over Jacksonville and he did not return to game action until the AFC Championship Game on January 29.
Prior to reaggravating the injury, Hardman made two receptions and carried the ball twice in what was his final appearance as a Chief - a 23-20 victory over Cincinnati that clinched another Super Bowl berth.
Mecole Hardman following the AFC Championship Game on Jan. 29, 2023
Denny Medley - USA TODAY Sports
“My expectation is to get out here and earn the respect of my teammates, my coaches,” Hardman, who scored 20 total touchdowns and gained 2,088 yards receiving in 57 regular season games with the Chiefs.
Hardman, who routinely shows his 4.33 (40-yard dash) speed, has reached the end zone four different ways (reception, rush, kick return, punt return) at the NFL level. The explosive playmaker also has three career postseason touchdowns.
“The return game is something that I love to do and probably will continue to do here,” said Hardman.
The fifth-year pro sees his skill set meshing well with new offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett’s schemes.
“I think Coach Hackett, with this offense, definitely can utilize my speed and certain things that I do well and incorporate it throughout the game plan,” said Hardman, who envisions being even faster after his recovery.
Hardman mentioned that the presence of receivers Allen Lazard and Garrett Wilson made the Jets an attractive free agent destination.
“They got a great foundation here. They got some nice pieces,” said the two-time Super Bowl Champion, who has appeared in four different postseasons.
“They got a great second-year player now in Garrett Wilson, who had an absolutely unbelievable year,” said Hardman. “The Jets, itself, was the right fit for me.”
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