Patrick Mahomes heats up MVP race and other Chiefs lessons learned in Week 8
By Jake Kokoris
Mecole Hardman steps up
I was critical of wide receiver Mecole Hardman after the Chief win over the Buffalo Bills in Week 6. I was concerned about his snap count and wondered whether he was apt to step up and become the Chiefs WR2 in Sammy Watkins‘ absence.
Well, Hardman certainly stepped up on Sunday. He scored a touchdown on his signature “I am faster than you play” (the drop pass), but he also made several intermediate catches, often in traffic. He corralled 7 catches on 9 targets and was one of Mahomes’ favorite targets all game, displaying crisp route running and showing chemistry with Mahomes.
This week, Hardman was far more than a gimmick guy. He showed himself to be a legitimate NFL receiver, a frighteningly fast one at that. If Hardman can build on this performance and continue to develop as a route-runner and hone his ball skills, the Chiefs will be even stronger at receiver once Watkins returns. Your move, NFL.
Next. How the Chiefs look at the midway point. dark