NFL analysts tell why the Chiefs will and won't trade for Mecole Hardman
The Kansas City Chiefs have been successful this year despite not having a great offense like we are so used to. The last six or so years – since Patrick Mahomes has been the starter, the Chiefs have been a top-three offense every year, including the best offense last season without a number one receiver […]
The Kansas City Chiefs have been successful this year despite not having a great offense like we are so used to. The last six or so years – since Patrick Mahomes has been the starter, the Chiefs have been a top-three offense every year, including the best offense last season without a number one receiver and a Super Bowl win, if I may add that.
The Chiefs' red zone issues are a thing of the league, but they had a guy on their team who knew how to score last year. Mecole Hardman is that guy, and while he isn't playing, he is definitely available for a trade. He claims he is healthy, but there seems to be a discourse between him and the team.
With the trade deadline being October 31, the Chiefs could be in the market for a new wide receiver or an old one. They could pursue Mecole Hardman, as he would now be cheaper than he would have been this offseason.
The Athletic broke down why and why not the trade won't happen.
Jets trade WR Mecole Hardman to Chiefs for 2024 fifth-round pick
Why it makes sense
Jones: Scoring is down for the Chiefs this season, and unlike previous years, they have no pass-catchers among the league leaders. Hardman is part of a crowded receiving unit in New York and had productive years in Kansas City before a groin injury and surgery cut his 2022 season short. A reunion could potentially benefit both parties.
Why it won't happen
Howe: Because the Chiefs are going to reunite with JuJu Smith-Schuster instead. No, I don't know that, but this is the perfect type of situation in which a team brings back a familiar face to help with depth and give the quarterback a little more reliability. But since Hardman doesn't have a role with the Jets, and he'd be more valuable to the Chiefs than anyone else, I can't say it wouldn't make sense unless Kansas City projects Patrick Mahomes will simply make it work with whoever is in uniform. – The Athletic
Me personally, with Watson going out, I know the Chiefs need another receiver soon. Now, if the Chiefs aren't able to get Marquise Brown from the Arizona Cardinals or Jerry Jeudy from the Denver Broncos, I would love to bring back Hardman.
He already knows the offense, so there wouldn't be much of a learning period. He brings a speed element that the Chiefs love too. Hardman had one receiving touchdown and two rushing touchdowns last season against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 7. The Chiefs could use that in the red zone.
Chiefs’ biggest problem is NFL-wide issue in 2023
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