Jan. 19, 2026, 6:03 a.m. CT
The Kansas City Chiefs‘ past continues to play a role in this year’s postseason matchups. The latest influence took place in the AFC Divisional round matchup between the Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills.
Former Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman was elevated from the Bills’ practice squad ahead of the game and immediately reminded fans of his Super Bowl experience. The veteran receiver scored the opening touchdown off a pass from quarterback Josh Allen that looked very similar to his Super Bowl-winning touchdown catch over the San Francisco 49ers.
The last time Hardman caught a pass in the playoffs was the overtime winning touchdown that the Chiefs scored in Super Bowl LVIII. The play was also his only reception of the day as Buffalo fell to the top-seeded Broncos 33-30. Denver moves on to host the AFC Championship next week without starting quarterback Bo Bix, who suffered a broken ankle.
Hardman was a fan favorite in Kansas City, but he has since moved on this season after signing with the Green Bay Packers last offseason. He’s prominently been a member of the Bills’ practice squad during the 2025 season.
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