The Kansas City Chiefs’ special teams have long been one of the NFL’s best forgotten thirds, thanks to special teams coordinator Dave Toub’s expertise.

Former Super Bowl champion Mecole Hardman was unfortunately let go, and there has been significant speculation that the organization could bring him back.

Some have speculated that Hardman could return to Kansas City on a one-year deal similar to the one he came back to the Chiefs in 2024 on, yet that’s fool’s gold.

Make no mistake, Kansas City would be making a massive mistake signing Hardman thanks to a superior returner’s newfound availability.

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Despite the news from ESPN’s Adam Schefter that promising punt returner from the New England Patriots Jabrill Peppers, was released, it’d arguably be a mistake for Kansas City to try to go beyond typical measures to sign him.

On the one hand, Peppers is a proven returner who stood out at Michigan in college. At the very least, that should render him a more effective option when compared to a player like Hardman, who had already worn out his welcome in Kansas City.

Hardman and Peppers fill the same role, in all likelihood. Hardman has no value on offense.

He’s just a special teams guy, as evidenced by his fumble out of the end zone in his lone touch during the playoff game against the Buffalo Bills last season. While the 27-year-old has plenty of locker room value, no one would argue he’s actually a good player. That’s a problem, and the opposite could be said in Peppers’ favor.

Peppers allowed just a 51.2 passer rating when targeted in coverage in limited snaps in 2024. His punt return chops change the dynamic, and there’s a benefit in having someone who is actually good outside of special teams, which is something that Hardman can’t guarantee.

Peppers can, and it would be wise to target someone like the ex-Michigan standout instead of the Georgia product, whom the coaching staff has already decided to move on from once.

For good or bad, Hardman won’t be re-signed. Peppers could be an addition, and that proves not only Hardman’s ineffectiveness but Peppers’ promise. One player showed hope, and one didn’t. It’s as simple as that.

Hardman’s time in the NFL may be coming to an end if the Chiefs don’t even want him on the roster. Hopefully, he’ll land with a franchise that allows Hardman to showcase the once-great promise that hasn’t been seen in multiple years.