The Kansas City Chiefs yet again find themselves one game away from a third consecutive Super Bowl appearance. But this time around, they will be without the man who played the role of the hero last postseason.
Veteran wide receiver Mecole Hardman hasn’t always played a big factor throughout his six-year tenure in Kansas City.
But last season, Hardman made the biggest play of the year, catching the game-winning pass with three seconds remaining in overtime to defeat that San Francisco 49ers.
It was not only Hardman’s biggest catch as an NFL wide receiver, but also one of the most clutch plays in the history of the NFL. But unfortunately, he has not been available this postseason and will continue to be out with a lingering knee injury.
According to Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, Hardman will not be taken off injured reserve, which means that he will miss the remainder of the postseason, including Sunday’s matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
#Chiefs coach Andy Reid tells reporters that WR Mecole Hardman, who was attempting to return off IR after a knee injury, will remain there and won’t play again this season.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 22, 2025
Again, Hardman’s absence may play more of an effect in the Chiefs locker room than on the field.
This year, Hardman has just 12 catches on the year for 90 yards in 12 total games played.
Still, not having someone available that has played in and won three Super Bowls in Kansas City certainly qualifies as a pretty big loss for the Chiefs.
Despite Hardman’s absence, the Chiefs still sit as 1.5-point favorites to defeat the Bills, which is a bit jarring considering the Bills are the only team all season to defeat the Chiefs.
