Posted on Aug 26

Packers release Hardman, Simmons after failing to make the 53-man roster

Posted Aug 26, 2025

The Green Bay Packers have released wide receiver Mecole Hardman and linebacker Isaiah Simmons as they finalize their 53-man roster ahead of the regular season.

Why it matters: The departures of Hardman and Simmons highlight the high-stakes nature of NFL roster management, particularly as teams must make tough decisions to comply with league regulations.

Both players were signed to one-year veteran minimum deals but failed to secure a spot on the final roster.
Their releases reflect the competitive environment within the Packers organization, where performance and fit are paramount.

What’s new: Mecole Hardman, a three-time Super Bowl champion known for his speed and versatility, was unable to replicate his previous success during his brief tenure in Green Bay.

A former standout with the Kansas City Chiefs, Hardman had garnered Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors in his rookie season (2019) as a kick returner.
Despite showing flashes of potential, he managed only 57 receiving yards in training camp and was unable to make an impact as either a receiver or kick returner.

By the numbers: Hardman's signing bonus of $150,000 reflects the risk-reward nature of NFL contracts for veteran players.

Additionally, Simmons received a slightly higher signing bonus of $167,500, indicating the Packers' investment in both players despite the eventual outcomes.

Yes, but: While Hardman is recognized for his championship pedigree, his inability to transition into the Packers’ offensive scheme raises questions about his future in the league.

He caught a game-winning touchdown from Patrick Mahomes in Super Bowl LVIII after the 2023 season, but that success has not translated into consistent play in Green Bay.
Similarly, Simmons, who was drafted eighth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in 2020, struggled to find a defined role after bouncing between linebacker and safety.

What to watch: The Packers will now turn their attention to other roster needs as they prepare for the upcoming season.

With Hardman and Simmons off the roster, opportunities may arise for younger players looking to make their mark.
Fans should keep an eye on how the Packers restructure their depth chart in light of these changes.

The bottom line: The release of Hardman and Simmons serves as a reminder of the NFL's unforgiving nature, where even established players can find themselves on the outside looking in.

As the Packers navigate the challenges of the regular season, they will need to optimize their roster while developing emerging talent to fill critical roles.

Packers release Hardman, Simmons after failing to make the 53-man roster

Alex Parker

Posted Aug 26, 2025

The Green Bay Packers have released wide receiver Mecole Hardman and linebacker Isaiah Simmons as they finalize their 53-man roster ahead of the regular season.

Why it matters: The departures of Hardman and Simmons highlight the high-stakes nature of NFL roster management, particularly as teams must make tough decisions to comply with league regulations.

Both players were signed to one-year veteran minimum deals but failed to secure a spot on the final roster.

Their releases reflect the competitive environment within the Packers organization, where performance and fit are paramount.

What’s new: Mecole Hardman, a three-time Super Bowl champion known for his speed and versatility, was unable to replicate his previous success during his brief tenure in Green Bay.

A former standout with the Kansas City Chiefs, Hardman had garnered Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors in his rookie season (2019) as a kick returner.

Despite showing flashes of potential, he managed only 57 receiving yards in training camp and was unable to make an impact as either a receiver or kick returner.

By the numbers: Hardman's signing bonus of $150,000 reflects the risk-reward nature of NFL contracts for veteran players.

Additionally, Simmons received a slightly higher signing bonus of $167,500, indicating the Packers' investment in both players despite the eventual outcomes.

Yes, but: While Hardman is recognized for his championship pedigree, his inability to transition into the Packers’ offensive scheme raises questions about his future in the league.

He caught a game-winning touchdown from Patrick Mahomes in Super Bowl LVIII after the 2023 season, but that success has not translated into consistent play in Green Bay.

Similarly, Simmons, who was drafted eighth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in 2020, struggled to find a defined role after bouncing between linebacker and safety.

What to watch: The Packers will now turn their attention to other roster needs as they prepare for the upcoming season.

With Hardman and Simmons off the roster, opportunities may arise for younger players looking to make their mark.

Fans should keep an eye on how the Packers restructure their depth chart in light of these changes.

The bottom line: The release of Hardman and Simmons serves as a reminder of the NFL's unforgiving nature, where even established players can find themselves on the outside looking in.

As the Packers navigate the challenges of the regular season, they will need to optimize their roster while developing emerging talent to fill critical roles.