Mecole Hardman-Chiefs Reunion Chances Take Huge Hit

The Chiefs assigned jersey numbers to their incoming rookie class earlier this week. While these numbers could ultimately change, they do provide a glimpse into Kansas City's future plans.

No rookie is going to get assigned #15 or #87, you know what I mean? Thus, it's potentially notable that fourth-round pick Jared Wiley was given #12. Super Bowl hero Mecole Hardman wore #12 last year and he's currently unsigned, so the move could indicate there are no plans to bring Hardman back.

Things can change of course, especially after the latest reports regarding Rashee Rice's potential suspension, but it doesn't look like the Chiefs intend to re-sign Hardman.

Rookie TE Jared Wiley Given Mecole Hardman's Old Number

Personally, I'd love to see Hardman back for a potential three-peat. He's familiar with the offense, a reliable red-zone threat and came up big in the Super Bowl.

Considering the uncertainty around Kansas City's wide receiver room right now, I'd support having an element of comfort. Wiley looks like an extremely promising pass-catching tight end, but tight ends typically take some time to develop. Hardman could contribute right away while Rice is theoretically, so I hope the jersey reveal doesn't rule out a potential return for the three-time Super Bowl champion.

Hardman was originally #17 before snagging #12 last year, so he seems willing to embrace whatever role or number is given to him. Maybe there's a savvy Chiefs fan out there collecting all of Hardman's numbers in his Chiefs career.

To this point, there's been no reports regarding conversations between Kansas City and Hardman. It's unclear if he's entertaining offers from other teams, though I hope Brett Veach at least makes the call to gauge interest.

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