Former Chiefs WR Makes NFL Free Agency Decision

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Former Chiefs WR Makes NFL Free Agency Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Trant | Last updated Oct 20, 2026 4:17 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs have been the class of the AFC to open the 2026 NFL season. Entering Sunday night’s matchup with the Seattle Seahawks, the Chiefs are 5-0 and sit firmly atop the AFC West. Ahead of Week 7, Kansas City is one of only three undefeated teams remaining.

The Chiefs have also been at the center of plenty of wide receiver speculation over the last few weeks, especially with former superstar wideout Tyreek Hill remaining unsigned. While receiver Rashee Rice is expected to return soon, the injuries to the Kansas City wide receiver room have generated buzz surrounding a potential reunion with Hill.

While Hill remains a free agent, another familiar pass catcher who spent parts of six seasons in Kansas City is officially headed to a new team.

Oct 20, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman (17) runs for a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images© Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

The Indianapolis Colts announced Tuesday that they signed former Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. to their practice squad.

Hardman, a three-time Super Bowl champion and former Pro Bowler as a returner, spent the majority of his career with the Chiefs but began this season with the Buffalo Bills.

Hardman also delivered one of the biggest plays in Chiefs history, catching the game-winning touchdown in overtime of Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers.

We have signed WR Mecole Hardman Jr. and P Thomas Morstead to the practice squad.

We have also released WR Eli Pancol from the practice squad.
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 20, 2026

Hardman was a second-round pick by the Chiefs in 2019 and has recorded 2,492 scrimmage yards and 21 total touchdowns over his career. His move to Indianapolis gives him another opportunity to earn a spot on an active NFL roster, especially given the struggles of the Indianapolis receiver room.

Kansas City opted for a different wide receiver reunion this year, bringing back veteran Justin Watson to their practice squad. Still, questions about another reunion will continue to swirl as long as Tyreek Hill remains unsigned.

While there is reported interest from both sides, nothing is imminent. Also, Hill may still face punishment from the NFL stemming from a civil trial verdict finding Hill liable on two counts of battery.

For now, Hardman will get a fresh start with the Colts. The Chiefs, however, could still make another move at wide receiver, with Hill only one of the possibilities.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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