No one is more familiar with Mecole Hardman than Andy Reid. It was Reid who selected the swift player in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, crafted a spot for him in the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense, welcomed him back after his release from the New York Jets, and gave him the chance to score a game-winning touchdown in the Super Bowl’s overtime.
Thus, when Reid shares his opinion, it’s wise to pay attention. At the NFL Meetings in Florida, ESPN’s Rob Demovsky inquired about Reid’s thoughts on Hardman’s potential performance with the Green Bay Packers, following his agreement to a one-year contract. Hardman’s speed remains his greatest asset. “Yes, they’ll find a spot for him.
He’s a good kid and incredibly fast,” Reid commented. “He’ll perform well for them.” Mecole Hardman is anticipated to contribute offensively, particularly while Christian Watson recovers from his ACL injury. However, his primary value to the Packers lies in his return capabilities, given his ability to handle both kickoff and punt returns.
A significant worry for Hardman is his history of missing games over the past three seasons due to injuries, which may affect his athletic performance. Nonetheless, Andy Reid is confident in Hardman’s ability to make an impact. “Oh yes, he can still play, definitely,” Reid affirmed. “Absolutely.” The deal is low-risk with a potential for moderate reward.
Mecole Hardman’s contract is valued at $1.5 million for one year, with a $1.461 million cap impact if he secures a roster spot, and only $150,000 is guaranteed as a signing bonus. Andy Reid also shares a deep connection with the Packers.
He spent seven years as an assistant coach in Green Bay during Mike Holmgren’s entire tenure, initially working as an assistant offensive line and tight ends coach from 1992 to 1996, earning a Super Bowl ring, and later being promoted to quarterbacks coach and assistant head coach. When Holmgren left for the Seattle Seahawks in 1999, the Packers chose Ray Rhodes as head coach, and Reid was then hired by the Philadelphia Eagles to succeed Rhodes.
