2023 Jets Country Player Profile: CB Justin Hardee (34)

New York Jets' cornerback Justin Hardee makes his money on special teams.

In fact, the former undrafted prospect did not log a single defensive snap in 2022, but he earned a ticket to the Pro Bowl for his contributions in the third phase of the game.

Hardee, Gang Green's special teams captain, was active for all 17 weeks last season. Totaling 367 plays on specials, the unit leader accounted for 14 tackles and one forced fumble.

The 6-foot-1 Hardee has made 33 of a possible 34 appearances for the Green & White over the past two years. 

The reliable core special teamer has competed in 89 career NFL regular season games. Following four seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Hardee received a three-year free-agent deal from the Jets in March 2021.

Hardee has registered no fewer than 215 special teams snaps in any of his six years as a pro. He saw limited action on defense with the Saints in 2018 and 2019. 

The 29-year-old's lone career interception came against Alex Smith in a 2018 win over Washington. One week earlier, Hardee made a 10-yard reception on a fake punt pass from Taysom Hill for a fourth-down conversion in the Saints' victory over the New York Giants.

Justin Hardee, Cornerback

Number: 34
Current Status: Special Teams Captain / Starting Gunner
How/When Acquired: FA Signing / 2021 (from Saints)
College: Illinois
2022 Final Stats: 17 GP, 14 TT, 1 FF

Pinned Tweet