2023 Jets Country Player Profile: WR Mecole Hardman (6)

Meet every player on the New York Jets' 90-man preseason roster through our daily series

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
Jun 7, 2023 6:39 AM EDT

In this story:

Mecole Hardman has the chance for a bounce-back season with the New York Jets.

After three good years in Kansas City, a core muscle injury limited the speedy receiver to only eight regular season games in 2022 and it also kept him sidelined for Super Bowl LVII.

Hardman underwent surgery in February before signing with Gang Green in March. He was working with trainers off to the side at Tuesday's OTAs practice, but should be ready to ramp it up once camp begins.

"Didn’t think we’d be able to get a guy like Mecole Hardman," said Jets' head coach Robert Saleh at the NFL Owners' Meetings in March. "So when he was sitting there, and just the amount of speed and the different things that he does, it was just a no-brainer for Joe, for us to add him."

Hardman inked a one-year deal, bringing elite speed and big game experience to the Jets.

"I know he ran a 4.3 [40-yard dash], but he plays 4.3. He’s got elite, elite field vision with the ball in his hands," said Saleh.

Hardman, a 2019 second-round draft pick, put his explosiveness on display as a rookie when he totaled 1,426 all-purpose yards en-route to earning a Pro Bowl nod as a return specialist.

He experienced a growth moment during the 2020 AFC Championship Game. After fumbling a first-quarter punt that allowed Buffalo to take a 9-0 lead, Hardman rebounded by catching a second-quarter touchdown pass and later ripping off a 50-yard run on a reverse play in the Chiefs' eventual 38-24 win.

In 2021, he set career highs in receptions (59) and receiving yards (693).

"if you could just get the ball in his hands, he’s going to make something happen," said Saleh.

Mecole Hardman, Wide Receiver

Number: 6
Current Status: Starter (Slot)
How/When Acquired: Free Agent Signing / 2023 (from Chiefs)
2022 Final Stats: 8 GP, 25 receptions, 297 rec yards, 6 total TD (4 rec, 2 rush), 9.2 punt ret avg

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Saleh Shows Loves for Free Agent Signings Lazard and Hardman
The Jets' head coach highlighted the talent that the two receivers will bring to their new team's offense.

Receiver Mecole Hardman Expects Healthy Start to Jets' Tenure
After the Super Bowl, for which he was inactive, Hardman underwent surgery to repair a core body injury. “I’m definitely on the right track. Probably ahead of schedule right now as we speak,” said Hardman in late March.

Two-time Super Bowl Champ Inks FA Deal with Gang Green
Hardman agreed to terms with Gang Green following four seasons in Kansas City. The No. 56 overall selection in the 2019 Draft exceeded the 500-yard receiving mark in each of his first three NFL seasons.