The Kansas City Chiefs gave Patrick ahomes three drives in the second preseason game, but he didn’t have Tyreek Hill to throw to, as Hill rested. Hill’s absence gave Mecole Hardman a good chance to see work with the first team. On the very first drive Hardman saw a whopping five targets on their first drive, but caught just two passes for 19 yards.
Mahomes was visibly upset with Hardman on a couple routes, as he wanted the receiver to make better decisions on his routes.
Rewatching the 2nd-&-goal play, it appears that Patrick Mahomes told Mecole Hardman to flatten his route, perhaps closer to the goal line than in the middle of the end zone.
— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) August 21, 2021
Hardman was able to find the end zone in the second quarter after backup quarterback Chad Henne came in, which had to help his psyche a bit.
Mecole. Hardman. pic.twitter.com/hsjtTSHovo
— Chiefs Core (@ChiefsCore) August 21, 2021
It wasn’t all bad for Hardman, but we also saw Byron Pringle make some nice plays in this game, as he had 4 receptions for 63 yards and hauled in a difficult catch.
Byron Pringle brings the ball in. (via @NFL) pic.twitter.com/EwEYygqyhV
— Arrowhead Pride (@ArrowheadPride) August 21, 2021
Hardman ended up with four receptions for 39 yards and the touchdowns and was heavily targeted. He continues to be a work in progress, but the Chiefs appear to like him as the No. 2 receiver going into 2021.