Before catching the game-winning Super Bowl touchdown for the Kansas City Chiefs, Mecole Hardman started the season as a New York Jet. Following a trade back to the Chiefs, Hardman shared his dissatisfaction with the Jets’ handling of his role.
Signed by the Jets for a one-year, $6.5 million contract, Hardman anticipated a significant role in the passing game alongside quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, Rodgers was injured early in the season, and Hardman found himself with minimal playing time, playing only 28 offensive snaps in six games.
Expressing his frustration, Hardman revealed that he had already discussed returning to the Chiefs with general manager Brett Veach and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Two weeks later, the Chiefs acquired him in a trade with the Jets, sending a sixth-round pick in exchange.
Hardman criticized the Jets for what he perceived as lies and mishandling, stating, “It’s the lies and the way they handled me. I didn’t like it at all.” Jets general manager Joe Douglas responded by emphasizing the emergence of rookie wideout Xavier Gipson as a factor in their decision to part ways with Hardman.
While Douglas refrained from discussing specifics or potential tampering charges, he acknowledged that Hardman’s comments resonated with the team. Hardman had anticipated a more significant role within the Jets’ offense but expressed dissatisfaction with the coaching staff and the lack of a clear offensive plan, especially in Rodgers’ absence.
Despite returning to the Chiefs, Hardman’s playing time didn’t reach the levels of his previous four years with the team. He played 33% of snaps during the regular season and a maximum of 38% in the playoffs, with limited contributions until his crucial performance in the Super Bowl.
