Packers Add Speed and Versatility by Signing WR to One-Year Deal
The Green Bay Packers have added a new weapon to their offense and special teams, signing wide receiver Mecole Hardman to a one-year contract, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The 26-year-old pass catcher and return specialist joins Green Bay after spending the 2023 season with the Kansas City Chiefs, where his time on the field was limited due to injuries.
Hardman’s most recent campaign was quiet by his standards, appearing in just 12 games and making limited contributions. He hauled in 12 receptions for 90 yards and added five rushing attempts for 62 yards, including a touchdown. Despite the modest stats, Hardman’s speed and versatility remain valuable traits, especially for a Packers team looking to add depth and explosiveness to its offensive arsenal.
His season was cut short in December when a knee injury sent him to injured reserve. However, there is optimism within the Packers organization that Hardman will be fully healthy and ready to contribute by the time training camp rolls around. When healthy, Hardman is capable of making an impact in a variety of ways—whether as a deep-threat receiver, gadget player in motion plays, or on special teams as a return man.
Originally drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Hardman has been known throughout his career for his elite speed and big-play potential. In his rookie year, he made an immediate impact by earning a Pro Bowl selection as a return specialist and contributing as a deep-ball threat in Kansas City’s high-powered offense. He played a key role in several postseason runs, including helping the Chiefs win Super Bowl LIV.
Now, with the Packers, Hardman enters a new chapter. Green Bay has a young and promising receiving corps that includes Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Jayden Reed. Adding a veteran like Hardman gives the group another dynamic option and someone with playoff experience. While he may not be expected to be the team’s top receiver, his ability to stretch defenses and open up underneath routes for his teammates could be a valuable asset in head coach Matt LaFleur’s system.
Hardman also brings added value on special teams. The Packers have lacked consistency in the return game in recent seasons, and Hardman’s history as a dangerous kick and punt returner could help solidify that phase. Over his NFL career, he has averaged more than 20 yards per kick return and has scored touchdowns on both punt and kick returns.
If he can stay healthy, the signing could prove to be a low-risk, high-reward move for Green Bay. The one-year deal gives Hardman an opportunity to reestablish his value while offering the Packers some much-needed speed and versatility. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how Hardman integrates into the offense and what kind of spark he can provide both on offense and special teams.