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Andy Reid Reveals Chiefs WR Could Return for Playoffs From Injury

Mecole Hardman hasn't played since November but has a chance to come back for the postseason.

By Joe Summers

Dec 21, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) talks with head coach Andy Reid during the second half against the Houston Texans at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Dec 21, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) talks with head coach Andy Reid during the second half against the Houston Texans at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images / Denny Medley-Imagn Images
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The Chiefs have suffered numerous injuries throughout the season and while they're getting healthier now, the team is still missing a few notable playmakers. Based on Andy Reid's recent comments to the media though, one reliable wide receiver has a chance to return for the playoffs.

Sixth-year veteran Mecole Hardman, who caught the game-winning TD in the Super Bowl last year, hasn't played over the last month as he deals with a knee injury. However, Reid revealed that Hardman could get back on the field at some point during the postseason.

While Hardman isn't a major part of the offense, he fills a variety of roles and has a history of coming up big in the playoffs. He's the team's best punt returner as well, so getting Hardman back can provide both the offense and special teams unit a boost.

Chiefs WR Mecole Hardman Has "Chance" to Return for Playoffs

So far this year, Hardman has only 12 catches for 90 yards along with five carries for 62 yards and a TD. He's returned 20 punts for 203 yards and five kicks for 132 more, but he's battled nagging injuries throughout the campaign.

His biggest contribution in 2023 obviously came in the Super Bowl, when he caught three passes for 57 yards and a TD. Outside of a Week 18 contest in which the Chiefs were resting starters, it was easily his most productive game of the season.

Hardman has been with the organization for six years. He's one of the most experienced players Kansas City has and clearly has the trust of the coaching staff and his teammates. If the Chiefs find themselves in a tight playoff game, an overwhelmingly likely possibility, they want as many guys they can trust on the field as possible.

Reid said it would be more difficult for CB Jaylen Watson to make it back, though he didn't rule it out. There is no return plan for Rashee Rice or Skyy Moore, so Hardman appears to be the only wideout who might recover in time.

Overall, Hardman isn't necessary to win a third straight Super Bowl. He certainly helps matters though, and it's a positive sign that he's making progress.

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