The current champions of the AFC continue to lose key offensive players. At the start of free agency, offensive lineman Joe Thuney left for the Chicago Bears, creating a significant gap in protecting Patrick Mahomes.
Bad news continues to come for the Chiefs and Mahomes. Now, one of their receivers, Mecole Hardman, has signed a one-year contract to move to the National Football Conference and play for Jordan Love and the Green Bay Packers.
Hardman was selected by the Chiefs in the second round of the 2019 Draft and immediately became an important receiver for Mahomes. He notably contributed with a touchdown in Super Bowl LVIII in overtime when Kansas City defeated the San Francisco 49ers.
In his career, Hardman has accumulated 178 receptions for 2,302 yards and 16 touchdowns in 80 games. He is also a dynamic player who participates in special teams.
In the 2024 season, Hardman suffered a knee injury in December, which ended his season. Now, he leaves Patrick Mahomes and joins Jordan Love.
Jordan Love will have a new weapon
The NFC North division was impressive in 2024, with three teams qualifying for the playoffs: Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, and Green Bay Packers, all of whom need weapons to stay in the fight. For now, they’ve added Mecole Hardman.
Hardman has several qualities: dynamism, great speed, and, most importantly, experience in big games, so he will provide depth to the Packers’ receiving corps.
Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs are the main options for Jordan Love in the Packers’ offense. However, both have dealt with injuries, so Hardman’s acquisition will be crucial for Matt LaFleur’s team.
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