The Kansas City Chiefs approach their Week 4 matchup later tonight against the New York Jets with their offense back on track. The blowout victory last Sunday featured contributions from several receivers as the young room continues to grow chemistry with Patrick Mahomes.
One of Mahomes’ favorite targets over the last few seasons was Mecole Hardman, who signed as a free agent this offseason with the Jets. The speedy receiver and former Pro Bowl returner spoke with reporters about the pressures of facing his former team earlier in the week.
“It’s a normal game.” said Hardman, “Don’t try to be anybody I’m not, don’t do nothing extra, you know, keep it simple and go out there and play.”
The former Chiefs 2019 draft pick hasn’t gotten off to a smooth start, with the Jets seeing limited time on the field in the first three weeks. Hardman has one catch for six yards on the season as the Jets are still adjusting their offense following Aaron Rodgers’ season-ending injury.
“I just gotta keep working, keep getting familiar with the offense, keep building trust with the staff, and hopefully waiting for my opportunity to come.” said Hardman, “When they do, take advantage.”
Hardman has maintained personal relationships with members of the Chiefs organization, including All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce. Hardman shared his thoughts on Kelce’s Week 3 special guest, Taylor Swift.
“Hey, if anybody can do that, it’d be Trav, for sure.” said Hardman, “Trav is a great guy; I love him to death. I haven’t asked him about that just yet, but I’ll have a conversation with him on the field, just throw it out there, like, ‘What’s going on?'”
As a member of the Chiefs, Hardman appeared in 57 regular-season games, caught 151 passes for 2,088 yards and 16 touchdowns, and 20 carries for 125 yards and two touchdowns. He had 62 punt returns on special teams for 555 yards and a touchdown. He also returned 39 kickoffs for 927 yards and a score.