Mecole Hardman missed the Chiefs’ week 14 game against the Chargers. But he is still making the headlines with his fiery replies. Patrick Mahomes‘s WR is simply not ready to let a knee injury dampen his spirits.

Hours after the Kansas City Chiefs placed him on injured reserve, Hardman hit the gym. The receiver shared a photo of himself working out on Instagram, sending fans a clear message: he’s staying focused on recovery. Trainer Luther Glover originally posted the photo with the caption, “Block out the noise 🖤.” The caption was perhaps a reaction towards people who lashed out Hardman online, right after the IR news came in.

The internet hasn’t been kind to Mecole Hardman off late. The WR has faced brutal criticisms online. Some have dug out the instance where Hardman fumbled a touchdown through the end zone back in a game against the Bills in January. One fan even took a jab, calling Hardman “always getting hurt somehow.” But Hardman wasn’t having it. On his Instagram Story, he fired back. Telling critics they probably hadn’t accomplished much in their lives. That kind of fiery response shows the frustration of a player who’s dealt with a lot of adversity this season.

Hardman’s knee injury, sustained during Friday’s practice, had sidelined him for at least four games. Andy Reid described it as a precautionary measure. The timing is tough. Hardman had been building momentum after rejoining the Chiefs from the Jets in October. In 12 games this season, he logged 12 receptions for 90 yards. Add to that 5 carries for 62 yards and a single touchdown.

Despite his limited role this year, Hardman’s versatility as a return specialist had been crucial. Kansas City would certainly miss his punt return average of 10.2 yards and 26.4 yards on kick returns. To fill the void, they promoted Nikko Remigio from the practice squad. This move highlights the team’s effort to adapt while grappling with injuries.

Mahomes’s WR room faces mounting pressure

Hardman’s injury isn’t an isolated issue. The Chiefs’ receiving corps has faced challenges all season. Hardman’s absence just adds to the growing list of challenges. Injuries sidelined Rashee Rice and Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, limiting Patrick Mahomes’s options. The injury announcement was first made by coach Andy Reid.

The WR’s “knee locked up on him” right before the team went down for practice on Friday. At least, that’s what HC Reid said. He added that the injury happened “right after our meeting, so before we got on the field, so we’ll just see where he’s at with that.” Despite Hardman not being a top target this season, the Chiefs will miss his versatility in return roles.

Remigio could get his shot now that Hardman’s out. Though the Chiefs are yet to reveal their plan for the rookie receiver, the lack of consistent WR performances adds stress as the playoffs loom. And Hardman’s absence is significant given his history of playoff heroics.

Fans recalled his game-winning touchdown in Super Bowl LVIII. A proof of his value under pressure. However, the nail-biting 19-17 win against the Chargers ensured the Chiefs’ 9th consecutive AFC West title, extending the 2nd-longest streak of its kind in NFL history. But this also adds to the growing expectations.

The Chiefs will need players to step up fast. Will the Chiefs have enough firepower to make a deep playoff run without Hardman? That’s a question Kansas City fans are asking themselves, and only time will tell.