The Buffalo Bills made a trio of roster moves on Saturday, headlined by the activation of veteran wide receiver Mecole Hardman from injured reserve. With Week 16 looming, the Bills are bolstering depth in key areas as they continue their playoff push.
Alongside Hardman’s return, kicker Michael Badgley and defensive end Andre Jones Jr. have been elevated to the active roster. These moves suggest Buffalo is looking to fine-tune its special teams and defensive rotation heading into a pivotal stretch of the season.
Hardman, 27, has had quite the journey over the past couple of years. Originally a second-round pick by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019, he carved out a role as a speed threat and return specialist during his rookie deal. After wrapping up his initial four-year, $5 million contract in Kansas City, Hardman hit free agency in 2023 and signed a one-year, $4 million deal with the New York Jets.
That stint in New York was short-lived. The Jets shipped him back to Kansas City in a late-round pick swap, reuniting him with the team where he first made his mark.
He re-signed with the Chiefs in 2024 on a one-year, $1.1 million deal, but the carousel didn’t stop there. In 2025, Hardman joined the Packers’ practice squad before ultimately landing in Buffalo, where he’s now back on an active roster.
This season, Hardman suited up for 12 games with the Chiefs, catching 12 of his 14 targets for 90 yards. While those receiving numbers don’t jump off the page, his impact in the return game has been more notable. He logged 25 returns for 335 yards, showing he still brings value as a special teams weapon.
For the Bills, this move is about versatility and experience. Hardman offers a proven option in the return game and can stretch the field when called upon, giving Josh Allen another tool in the offensive toolbox. With playoff positioning on the line, every edge matters - and Hardman’s speed and familiarity with high-pressure football could prove valuable down the stretch.
Meanwhile, the elevation of Badgley suggests Buffalo is either managing an injury situation or looking for more consistency in the kicking game. Badgley, a veteran with plenty of NFL experience, gives the Bills a steady leg if called upon.
On the defensive side, Andre Jones Jr. gets the nod to help reinforce the edge rotation. Whether it’s providing fresh legs in pass-rush situations or contributing on special teams, Jones adds depth to a unit that’s been tested throughout the season.
As Buffalo prepares for a critical Week 16 matchup, these roster tweaks reflect a team fine-tuning its personnel for the final push. With Hardman back in the mix and reinforcements on both sides of the ball, the Bills are looking to hit their stride at just the right time.