Here's the Real Reason the Chiefs Traded For Mecole Hardman
By Joe Summers
Mecole Hardman is reportedly returning to the Kansas City Chiefs for a late-round pick swap, bringing the two-time Super Bowl champion back to the franchise that drafted him.
Trade: Jets informed former Chiefs’ WR Mecole Hardman that he is being sent back to Kansas City in another late-round draft pick swap, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 18, 2023
I'm stunned by this move, but it can only indicate one thing: Brett Veach and Andy Reid do not have faith in Skyy Moore and to a lesser degree, Kadarius Toney.
Make no mistake, Hardman's addition to the offense is a signal the Chiefs overestimated their receivers and now must make amends.
The Real Reason Chiefs Traded for Mecole Hardman
It's no secret that Kansas City's offense is struggling. Nonetheless, Hardman fills the same role that both Moore and Toney currently do. Someone has to be the odd man out, and I believe this move is the first domino that'll result in Moore being phased out of the offense.
Mecole Hardman's ADOT (average depth of target) his last two seasons in KC:
— Joe Summers (@IAmJoeSummers) October 18, 2023
7.4
8.1
Skyy Moore's ADOT in his first two seasons in KC:
7.9
8.9
They serve the same role in the offense. This move is about Skyy.
Moore has been wildly disappointing and understandably reminds fans of Hardman. Both were second-round picks who have failed to meet expectations, so it's fitting that one may now replace the other.
Toney's ADOT is just 2.2 this season and was 4.8 with the Chiefs last year, so I'm less concerned about his role. His high target share, as well as the draft capital they spent to get him, tells you the coaching staff still thinks highly of the former first-rounder.
We've been clamoring for either an improvement or a replacement for Moore. It seems Hardman is Brett Veach's answer. He accumulated over 2,000 yards and 18 touchdowns over four seasons with the Chiefs, making him Kansas City's most accomplished receiver with the organization.
This opens up a big opportunity for Toney as well. If Hardman takes over the gadget plays, Toney can get back to finding space down the field. He was exceptional against the Jaguars last year in that kind of role and the Chiefs can let him get back to doing what he's done best.
Like it or not, Hardman is back. This reunion says a lot more about the rest of Kansas City's receiver room than it does him, though.
DraftKings Sportsbook is giving Chiefs fans an INSTANT $200 bonus for any $5 bet this week vs. the Chargers. Think Hardman has a big game? Even if you're wrong, you'll win $200 regardless! Sign up for DraftKings, deposit at least $10 and bet $5 or more, then you'll instantly receive $200 in bonus bets PLUS one no-sweat same-game parlay token every day after opting in. Join the party - sign up for DraftKings now!
More Kansas City Chiefs News:
feed