The Buffalo Bills are exploring the possibility of adding free agent Mecole Hardman to their wide receiver roster. Following significant changes, including trading Stefon Diggs and losing Gabriel Davis, the team sees Hardman as a potential depth addition. While the Bills have other capable receivers like Khalil Shakir and Curtis Samuel, incorporating Hardman’s speed could enhance their vertical passing game. Hardman, who recently scored the game-winning touchdown in Super Bowl LVIII with the Chiefs, could compete with Marquez Valdes-Scantling for a similar role.

By the Numbers
  • Khalil Shakir caught 39 of his 45 targets for 611 yards last season.
  • Hardman played only five games for the Jets before moving to the Chiefs, finishing with a single reception and a game-winning Super Bowl touchdown.
Yes, But

While Hardman adds speed, he is primarily a deep threat with limited route precision. The Bills already have Marquez Valdes-Scantling in a similar role, potentially causing redundancy.

State of Play
  • The Bills' current wide receiver options include veterans Curtis Samuel and Khalil Shakir, and rookie Keon Coleman.
  • A low-risk addition of Hardman could bolster the team’s depth without straining the budget.
What's Next

The Bills must decide if adding another deep threat like Hardman is worth potentially limiting Shakir's and Samuel's roles. If signed, Hardman could compete for playing time in the preseason and establish chemistry with Josh Allen.

Bottom Line

Incorporating Mecole Hardman into the Bills' lineup could inject needed speed into their offense, but it’s crucial to balance this addition with the development of other promising wide receivers already on the roster.