Mecole Hardman left the Kansas City Chiefs for the New York Jets for this important reason.
Although Mecole Hardman was in football paradise, apparently being a glorified gadget player in the Kansas City Chiefs offense was unfulfilling to him.
Despite starring for national powerhouse Georgia in college, the Chiefs never really took the time to develop Hardman’s route tree. Admittedly, he was more of an athlete coming out of high school. His talent at Georgia was undeniable, but I would be lying to you if I didn’t think his game needed refinement at the NFL level. Fate would have it, this is a reason why he left for the New York Jets.
According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, Hardman signed with the Jets because they made promises of being able to expand his limited route tree. Cimini cited that in Kansas City, Hardman was used on bubble screens, jet screens and other plays in and around the line of scrimmage, as well as making use of his speed down the field. Hardman merely wants to be used in the midfield passing attack.
In theory, it makes sense, but all that matters is how the offense grows under Nathaniel Hackett.
NFL rumors: Mecole Hardman wants to run more routes with the New York Jets
I don’t really know what accentuations of Hardman’s limited route tree are feasible, but surely, more slants and breaking routes would be welcomed. The NFL doesn’t need another Slant Boy, but it needs more Dawgs! Of course, Gang Green did hire a guy that didn’t even last a year in Denver at head coach. This is also the same AFC franchise that bequeathed us The Butt Fumble.
Truth be told, Hardman may have a better idea of what to do with the ball in his hands behind the line of scrimmage than Mark Sanchez ever did. Against all odds, the Jets are trending towards being a playoff team this season. Assuming they actually trade for Aaron Rodgers, the 2023 NFL season should be viewed as playoffs or bust for Gang Green. Otherwise, what are we even doing?!
Honestly, I would love nothing more than for Hardman to master every possible branch stemming off his route tree. Whether he is tasked with 0 to 9, let it rip, dude! What does bother me in all this is Andy Reid is an offensive guru, but Hardman is the latest player that he seemingly marginalized their talent over. Eventually, they will need more than Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce to win.
Best of luck to Hardman, Hackett and the rest of the Jets in making this season one to remember.