Packers' three-time Super Bowl winning veteran misses crucial chance in preseason game
Mecole Hardman's debut with the Green Bay Packers was far from impressive, as he made costly mistakes during the team's preseason loss to the New York Jets. These errors, particularly in punt returns and dropped passes, have cast a shadow over Hardman's bid for a backup receiver and lead returner spot amidst a crowded receiving group [1].
Hardman's struggles began early, as he muffed a bouncing punt, handing the Jets another scoring opportunity [2]. This mistake was followed by a drop near the sideline, leading to a third-and-long situation. The ensuing play after dropping the pass resulted in a strip-sack and a defensive touchdown for the Jets [3].
Coach Matt LaFleur was disappointed with Hardman's choices, specifically his inability to scoop a bouncing punt [4]. The Packers' depth at receiver and the preference to limit return duties for starters like Jayden Reed and Keisean Nixon make Hardman's special teams value crucial [5]. However, Saturday's performance has raised doubts about whether Hardman can secure the special teams role.
Hardman acknowledged his mistakes, stating that he needs to make better decisions to improve his performance [6]. With two joint practices and two preseason games remaining, Hardman has limited chances to recover and prove his worth on the final 53-man roster [7].
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Hardman's future with the Packers, there remains some expectation that he intends to bounce back from his setbacks [5]. However, the team's initial depth chart and early training camp reports do not consider Hardman a roster lock, indicating he is still battling to secure his place [2][3].
[1] - [7] - Bullet points provided.
- In light of his struggles, Mecole Hardman needs to improve his performance on punt returns and catch passes more efficiently to secure his backup receiver and lead returner spot, given the Packers' depth at receiver and the reluctance to assign return duties to their starters.
- After his mistakes in the preseason game against the New York Jets, including muffing a punt and dropping a pass leading to a strip-sack and defensive touchdown, Mecole Hardman must demonstrate better decision-making in the remaining two preseason games to prove his value for the special teams role.
