The Kansas City Chiefs used their second-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft on a speedy wide receiver from Georgia. Mecole Hardman came to Kansas City and immediately drew comparisons to Tyreek Hill. On Sunday, the two will take the field together in hopes of finally taking down the New England Patriots.
These two teams met twice last season, once in the regular season and in the AFC Championship Game. The Patriots came away victorious in both meetings. The Chiefs will need the speed of Hardman to play a factor in this game. He ran a 4.33 40-yard dash at the NFL combine and he has shown off his speed at times this season. Hardman is a true deep ball threat. He pairs well with Patrick Mahomes who could throw the ball to the moon if he wanted to.
Kansas City is full of skill position players and Bill Belichick knows this. Even with Mahomes, Hill, and Travis Kelce on the field, it could be Hardman who proves to be the most important.
Chiefs Needs Hardman Against New England
Hardman has been used sparingly this season. He has 23 catches on the year and four is his most in a game. He has collected 450 yards, averaging 19.6 yards per reception, to go along with five touchdowns. All of Hardman's touchdowns have been from 20 yards or more with three being longer than 40 yards.
The Chiefs have themselves another true deep threat. Hardman fits in perfectly in Andy Reid's offense. Kansas City will need Hardman to get behind the Patriots' defense in this game.
Right now, New England has the No. 1 defense in football. They have been playing at a high level all season but have shown at times that they are not invincible. Stephon Gilmore might be the top cornerback in the league this season. He will most likely be responsible for keeping Hill in check. The Patriots are allowing just 94.5 rush yards per game this season so it will be difficult for the Chiefs' backs to get going.
Kansas City has had little receiver help outside of Hill this season. After exploding in Week 1, Sammy Watkins has returned back down to Earth. Travis Kelce is the team's best pass-catcher but he is a tight end. At the receiver spot, the Chiefs need someone to step up and that could be Hardman in this game.
The rookie has the speed to run past any corner in the league. Hardman is not a polished route runner just yet but his speed makes up for any false moves. If Mahomes delivers a dime, Hardman will come down with it. Expect the Chiefs to draw up some plays this week to get Hardman open deep.
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