7 Chiefs players who’ve (likely) played their final game in Kansas City
By Matt Conner
Mecole Hardman
Most fans in Chiefs Kingdom would likely say Mecole Hardman’s name as one of the first mentioned for a list like this. That’s because it feels like his move out of Kansas City has been telegraphed for quite some time.
When the Chiefs traded Tyreek Hill last offseason, it was a ripe opportunity for Hardman to finally step out of the shadows and make his presence felt as the most seasoned wide receiver in the room coming into Week 1. However, injuries took their toll—a heel early in the year and a pelvic injury late in the season—and Hardman’s effectiveness was limited to a few games at midseason.
To give Hardman credit, he did show up strong in that schedule’s midsection with five touchdowns in three games. Perhaps other teams will see potential value there and try to sign him away from the Chiefs knowing he also comes with top speed and—just maybe—some untapped potential to go with that postseason experience.
The one caveat here is that the injury could change the game here for Hardman’s free agency. If he wants to bet on himself, he might make himself available to Brett Veach for a discount in order to rebuild his stock in a familiar place. Kadarius Toney might be in place, but Andy Reid loves versatile player which allows for offensive redundancy (e.g. players who can do the same thing on the field to keep defenses guessing).
Hardman is a free agent and likely gone, but keep an eye on how the market plays out.