One season ago today, Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman was competing for a starting role with the New York Jets as part of an offensive rehaul made by Gang Green during the 2022 offseason. Later that season, Hardman fell completely out of the Jets’ plans found his way back to Kansas City, and became the hero of Super Bowl 58 only a few months later.
After practice at Missouri Western in St. Joe, Hardman reflected on his Super Bowl-clinching catch and the offseason that ensued for the the veteran wide receiver.
“[The offseason] was pretty fun,” Hardman began. “I believe you’ll capitalize on certain opportunities after the Super Bowl, but it’s kind of like one of those things you enjoy, then after that, you got to get back to business, get back to working out, get stronger (and) faster and so you can get ready for this camp like this,” he explained.
Hardman’s exciting time away from football also included the birth of his baby girl, which was the highlight of his offseason. “The offseason was fun,” he continued. “I had my daughter, so I was around the family a lot this offseason.”
Now, it’s time to get back to work and Hardman knows the hefty goals his team has set before them with the expectation of reaching the Super Bowl for the third consecutive season and accomplishing the three-peat. One aspect he feels has helped him improve his game over the last five seasons, is the experience he’s gained throughout his career.
“I think just the experience,” he reflected. “I guess just being [in Kansas City] most of the time, and learning the system, learning how to win, learning how to become a better leader, learning how to take care of your body, learning how to actually practice, learning the game – the game is slowing down – I think all of that comes with experience and the years you have in the league,” he explained.
“Now it’s just more about just finding ways to become better at the little things at the little fundamental things and trying to get better each and every day, so that way you can have that long career that you want,”
Hardman had the privilege of entering the league with a team that was filled with his leadership which helped him have a successful career thus far. He acknowledged that learning from guys like tight end Travis Kelce and others played a role in helping him get better.
“I think the experience and the knowledge that comes with it is where I’ve been learning the most and learning from guys like Trav (Kelce) still and the older guys that have been here. So just trying to take that all into account and just become better each and every day.”
