Mecole Hardman injury: Chiefs WR goes down, questionable to return vs. Buccaneers

Kansas City Chiefs (7-0) receiver Mecole Hardman suffered a right shoulder injury in the first quarter of Monday’s Week 9 home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-4).

Hardman, initially ruled questionable to return, is back in the game.

Hardman took a big hit from Buccaneers linebacker J.J. Russell after a 30-yard punt return. He stayed down on Tampa Bay’s sideline before heading to the locker room.

Mecole Hardman with a big punt return for the Chiefs. He went down after the play and trainers seem to be looking at his shoulder. pic.twitter.com/zHVBZLrdqQ

— Arye Pulli (@AryePulli) November 5, 2024

Chiefs lose another receiver in Mecole Hardman

With Hardman sidelined, the Chiefs are down to four healthy wideouts against Tampa Bay: DeAndre Hopkins, Xavier Worthy, Justin Watson and Justyn Ross. The latter is making his season debut.

Hardman came into the game with six receptions for 58 yards.

Hardman going down is the last thing the Chiefs needed, as the injuries to its receiver core continue to pile up. Kansas City is without Rashee Rice and Hollywood Brown for the season.