Dark Horse Chiefs WR Could Steal Mecole Hardman's Roster Spot

Oct 22, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. (12) and quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) prior to a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. (12) and quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) prior to a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports / Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
facebooktwitterreddit

2023 undrafted WR Nikko Remigio is enjoying an excellent summer with the Chiefs. So much so, that special teams coordinator Dave Toub revealed he's in a battle for a roster spot with Super Bowl hero Mecole Hardman.

When answering a question about Remigio's potential place on the 53-man roster, Toub revealed to Starcade Media Remigio is slotted as the No. 1 kick returner after minicamp. During Toub's answer, he compared the former All-Mountain West WR with Hardman and noted they're competing.

If Remigio is going to make the roster, it'll have to come at someone's expense. Kadarius Toney could be an option but that's not the name that came to Toub's mind.

Dave Toub Says Nikko Remigio and Mecole Hardman Fighting for Roster Spot

Toub sang Remigio's praises, saying he'd be on the team if it were up to him, presumably because of his special teams contributions. Hardman was a Second-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl returner his rookie season, so he's got plenty of experience back there as well.

Hardman just got back to the Chiefs and could soon regain the return spot, though it sounds like an open competition. He has a strong relationship with the coaching staff but doesn't have any guaranteed money on his deal, giving Kansas City's front office a potential out.

"[Remigio] and Mecole are gonna be battling it out," said Toub. "They're gonna battle it out at that spot. It'll come down to the return game and we'll see how they do on the offensive side as well."

I would think that Hardman ultimately has the edge, and I'd give him the nod over Toney as well given his experience. However, that may not be how the Chiefs view it.

The back end of the wide receiver group remains one of the most interesting storylines facing this team and it appears Remigio is now firmly in the conversation.


feed