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Mecole Hardman (pelvis/abdomen) was beginning to have a productive season from Weeks 5 through 9 before he strained his abdomen and was placed on the IR in Week 10. The 24-year-old had scored a touchdown in three-straight games before the injury and had his biggest game of the year in a Week 9 victory over the Tennessee Titans. Unfortunately, he suffered some setbacks during his recovery and ended up missing the remainder of the regular season.
The fourth-year man was back for the AFC Championship Game and made a catch to convert a first down on a touchdown drive in the third quarter, but the play aggravated his abdominal injury.
Hardman was hoping to be a full go for the Super Bowl, but things haven't looked good in the first week of practice. Will Hardman play in Super Bowl LVII?
Chiefs Wide Receiver Room Is Depleted
Hardman did not practice on Wednesday and Thursday. This could bode trouble for the Chiefs in the Super Bowl as JuJu Smith-Schuster (knee) and Kadarius Toney (ankle/hamstring) also did not practice. Marquez Valdes-Scantling is the only fully healthy receiver on the Chiefs' first team. Justin Watson and Skyy Moore are the next men up if all three receivers miss the big game.
Mecole Hardman Injury Updates for Fantasy Football
Unfortunately, the injury appears quite serious. NFL Media's Mike Garafolo said, "As of right now, it doesn't look like Hardman is going to play." Coach Andy Reid said he doubts Hardman will play.
Hardman is psyched about playing, and he is gathering second opinions. There is a remote possibility he could be able to go.
Is Mecole Hardman Injured or Playing in the Super Bowl?
Given the latest news about Reid dampening optimism for Hardman's recovery, the signs are pointing to him not playing. But there is still one week left for him to try to rehab. Fantasy managers do not have to set their DFS rosters just yet.
That said, Hardman would not be a reliable fantasy option even if healthy. He has only gone over 50 yards twice this season, and he has been held to three or fewer catches in six of his nine games.
Other Chiefs options could be better choices. About JuJu Smith-Schuster (knee), Adam Schefter reported the Chiefs "are optimistic he will be able to play." Reid also expressed optimism about Toney's availability (though fantasy managers might be reluctant to believe it by now). Marquez Valdes-Scantling stepped up last week and caught six passes for 116 yards and a touchdown, so he should also be a consideration.
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