Quote:
Originally Posted by Shag
I think it depends on which version of Hardman they're scheming. If it's the Hardman from the first 5 games, where they're trying to use him more like a traditional WR, then AOSD can absolutely do what he does. If Reid commits to using him primarily like he did against SF, then he's worth keeping around, but the contract has to reflect that role - would Hardman accept that's what he is in the NFL?
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I don't think so, though.
A) Hardman's foot has clearly been bothering him.
B) He was damn good against the Raiders and pretty good against the Chargers despite being obviously limited by the heel.
No, I don't think he's going to be a pure X receiver. But I think there's a happy medium. I think there's a version of Hardman that incorporates his usage against the Raiders/Chargers w/ the threat (or actual) use of him like we used him against the 49ers.
He's gotten a lot more willing to absorb contact to make the catch. He's gotten a lot better about attacking the ball with his hands to bring it in. And yes, I think he's improved in his route running and his chemistry.
He's gotten quite a bit better here. And his physical tools aren't in question.
If I could get him signed to the deal we got MVS signed to, I'd give it to him without question. I'd offer it to him now, in fact. That's an opportunity for some real surplus value. Guys with his tools aren't easy to get. I mean set THIS version of him alongside Jameson Williams and tell me what Williams is clearly better at?
And he's still only 24 years old. He's all of 3 years older than Williams - there's PLENTY of football in front of him.
You want to buy IN to guys like Hardman, not walk away from them.