Mecole Hardman’s tenure with the New York Jets didn’t last long as he was already traded back to the Kansas City Chiefs ahead of the trade deadline. Following the move to trade Hardman, Robert Saleh shared that the Jets felt comfortable moving on from him due to Xavier Gipson’s emergence.
Saleh says Xavier Gipson is "the major reason" why Hardman became expendable, thus leading to the trade. #Jets
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) October 23, 2023
Hardman was among the wide receiver signings the Jets made this offseason in hopes to surround Aaron Rodgers with a plethora of weapons. Besides already having an All-Pro-level talent in Garrett Wilson, the Jets also brought in Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb at the receiver position.
Gipson made a name for himself during offseason activities by contributing on special teams. But with Corey Davis retiring, Gipson was able to make the active roster and he began the season as the team’s starting returner on kicks and punts.
The undrafted rookie out of Stephen F. Austin scored a game-winning punt return touchdown in Week 1 and he’s since seen a few snaps on offense. Gipson has totaled 35 yards from scrimmage on four touches.
Meanwhile, Hardman wasn’t seeing the field much on offense despite the Jets lacking vertical speed in the passing game. Even with that being the case, the Jets also didn’t have much interest in having Hardman play on special teams with Gipson returning kicks.
Hardman is now back with the Chiefs and the main reason why is because of Gipson making the most of his opportunities thus far.
