Jets Send Speedy WR Mecole Hardman Back To The Chiefs

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Jets WR Mecole Hardman has been traded back to the Chiefs, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The Jets, who signed Hardman to a $4 million contract this offseason, sent him along with a 2025 7th round pick to the Chiefs in exchange for a 2025 6th round pick.

Hardman’s return to the Chiefs comes after a lackluster stint with the Jets, where he played only 28 offensive snaps and made just one reception this season.

Hardman’s return to the Chiefs marks a full circle in his career. He left the Chiefs in the offseason with the promise of being a versatile member of their wide receiver rotation and catching passes from Aaron Rodgers. However, Rodgers’ injury in Week 1 dashed those expectations, and Hardman found himself sidelined in New York.

Now back with the Chiefs, Hardman could provide a boost to their struggling wide receiver corps.

Despite Patrick Mahomes’ around to help, the Chiefs’ receiving unit has underperformed this season. Hardman, although considered more of a gadget player, is familiar with Andy Reid’s system and could quickly vie for playing time alongside Kadarius Toney, Justin Watson, and Rashee Rice.

In his previous stint with the Chiefs, Hardman caught 152 passes for 2,094 yards and 16 touchdowns over four seasons.

Mecole returning should bolster the Chiefs’ passing game because one thing he has a ton of is elite speed.