4 Star receivers the Atlanta Falcons could pair with Desmond Ridder

4. Mecole Hardman

If there is one issue with the Atlanta Falcons offense heading into 2023 it is the obvious lack of a speed threat. Pitts, London, and Allgeier are all elite at creating plays, however, none of the three are winning due to their speed though all three move well considering their size. Hardman would be a great addition and solve this problem giving Arthur Smith a weapon he can utilize from multiple positions.

Leaving Patrick Mahomes for the Atlanta Falcons is going to be a tough sell meaning Atlanta would likely need to overpay slightly to land Hardman. Mecole is a former Georgia Bulldog alum perhaps working in Atlanta’s favor.

Signing Hardman to a 3-4 year deal in the $8-11 million range should be enough to land the receiver and get Ridder a much-needed second option at the position. The one obvious problem with this move is that Hardman doesn’t fit the receivers that Arthur Smith targets. Smith has either targeted a pass catcher in the draft or brought in big-bodied targets. Hardman would be a slight change in the usual strategy but a sensical one.  Hardman’s best season was two years ago when the receiver finished just short of 700 yards and had 4 touchdowns. Atlanta could count on Hardman for 500-800 yards and use his speed in short-yardage situations from the backfield.