The Kansas City Chiefs parted ways with Mecole Hardman in the 2025 offseason in an effort to improve the position. While Hardman remains a franchise legend based on his accomplishments, the veteran is an admittedly limited receiver. This led to a signing with the Green Bay Packers, where the pass catcher would become a surprise roster cut ahead of the season. In the time since, the receiver has continued to look for potential landing spots. The most recent workout was with the Colts after a failed attempt to land with the New Orleans Saints. Neither landing spot offering a contract is telling.
Still, there is hope that Hardman's career isn't over just yet when you look around the rest of the league. The Buffalo Bills and Atlanta Falcons both stand out as rosters badly in need of receiver depth. It is difficult to imagine that Hardman doesn't instantly make either roster better. This is especially the case for an Atlanta roster that has been unable to rely on any option at the position outside of Drake London. Even Hardman's limited contributions at this stage of his career could be viewed as an upgrade.
Former Chiefs Receiver Mecole Hardman Continues Difficult Road After Leaving Kansas City
Despite the remaining potential landing spots, there is no denying the level of frustration for a player who is only two seasons removed from catching a game-winner in overtime of the Super Bowl. It is hard to watch this level of accomplishment be ignored. However, even with that said, it isn't as if the Chiefs are in a position to offer the veteran a landing spot.
It was difficult to make room for Rashee Rice to return, and you have two great depth options behind your current starting trio. There simply isn't a viable excuse for making a change to the current depth chart. Something that has to be a bit of a frustration to a player who is as accomplished as Hardman has been throughout his career. While the numbers aren't overwhelming, there are many moments over the last half-decade that the pass catcher has found a way to make a play.
Keeping this in mind, even with the latest setbacks, it is difficult not to envision Hardman finding a landing spot before the end of the 2025 season. Even if it is just in a depth capacity, the resume that the Chiefs helped him build is simply too enticing for a team not to take a chance over the next weeks of the season. Keeping Hardman in limbo for the time being, hoping that the opportunity soon presents itself after an incredibly rough start to the season.