Bills Elevate Veteran Mecole Hardman for Critical Playoff Matchup
ORCHARD PARK, January 17, 2026 – The Buffalo Bills have elevated veteran wide receiver and return specialist Mecole Hardman from the practice squad, the team announced Friday. The move comes as the team prepares for a road test in the AFC Divisional Round against the top-seeded Denver Broncos, set for Saturday at 4:30 PM ET.
Depth Move Amid Injury Crisis
Hardman’s elevation is a direct response to a severe shortage at the wide receiver position. This week, the Bills placed three wideouts – Joshua Palmer (ankle), Tyrell Shavers (knee), and Gabe Davis (knee) – on injured reserve, ending their seasons. While the team activated Curtis Samuel from IR, his status for Saturday remains questionable. Hardman, a seven-year veteran and three-time Super Bowl champion, is expected to be active primarily to bolster Buffalo’s special teams units as a kick and punt returner, though he could see limited offensive snaps given the depleted depth chart.
Hardman’s 2025 Season & Playoff Pedigree
The 2025 season has been a tumultuous one for the 27-year-old former Georgia standout. Signed by the Bills to their practice squad in November, Hardman appeared in just two regular-season games, recording zero receptions on one target but returning one kickoff for 61 yards. He was later released and subsequently re-signed to the practice squad in late December.
Despite his quiet regular season, Hardman brings significant postseason experience. In 14 playoff games—all with the Kansas City Chiefs—he has 27 receptions for 288 yards and three touchdowns, plus 105 rushing yards and a score. He is famously remembered for catching the game-winning, walk-off touchdown pass from Patrick Mahomes in overtime of Super Bowl LVIII.
Key Facts: Mecole Hardman
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Team | Buffalo Bills (Elevated from Practice Squad) |
| Position | Wide Receiver / Return Specialist |
| Age | 27 |
| Experience | 7th Season |
| 2025 Regular Season Stats (BUF) | 0 Receptions, 0 Yards, 1 Kick Return for 61 Yards |
| Career Playoff Stats (KC) | 27 Rec, 288 Yds, 3 TD; 13 Car, 105 Yds, 1 TD |
| Super Bowl Rings | 3 (With Kansas City Chiefs) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Mecole Hardman elevated?
The Bills elevated Hardman due to a crisis at wide receiver, having lost three players at the position to season-ending injuries this week. He provides experienced depth and a specific skill set as a returner on special teams.
Will Hardman play on offense?
While his primary role is expected to be on special teams, the Bills’ extreme lack of healthy receivers means Hardman could see some snaps on offense, though his impact there is anticipated to be limited.
What is Hardman’s history with the Bills?
Hardman joined the Bills’ practice squad in November 2025. He was active for two games, was released, and then re-signed to the practice squad in late December. This is his second elevation to the active roster this season.