NFL Player News

Hardman reeled in both of his targets for 25 yards Sunday against the Chargers.

Hardman finished out his regular season with 41 catches for 560 yards and four touchdowns on 62 targets. While that does represent gains in all but touchdowns, it wasn't quite the jump in production many were expecting of Hardman in his sophomore season. It's possible that jump will come following another offseason, especially if Sammy Watkins and/or DeMarcus Robinson leave Kansas City via free agency this offseason, opening up a more consistent role in the offense. Even if he finds more snaps on offense, Hardman will need to contend with star targets Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill for looks, which could factor into his production in future campaigns.

Thomas (ankle) is expected to rejoin the Saints for practice Wednesday as a limited participant, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

After missing the Saints' final three regular-season games with a high-ankle sprain, Thomas is eligible to return from injured reserve this week as New Orleans prepares for its wild-card matchup Sunday versus the Bears. The Saints have yet to designate Thomas for a return from IR, but Rapoport's report suggests that will happen later Wednesday. According to Rapoport, Thomas is gradually expected to ramp up his activity throughout the week with the hope of suiting up against Chicago, but his return to game action is not locked in at this stage. Per Mike Triplett of ESPN.com, coach Sean Payton said the Saints likely won't have a good feel for Thomas' status for the postseason opener until later in the week, after the team has a chance to see how his ankle responds to practice work.

Mickens returned two kickoffs for 51 yards and netted no gain on one punt return in the Buccaneers' 44-27 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

Mickens was back on the active roster for the first time since Week 9, and he ultimately logged three offensive snaps alongside his 15 plays on special teams. The 26-year-old finished his fourth pro season with a career-high seven receptions for 58 yards and added 439 yards on returns, all across 10 games. Mickens projects to continue serving as the Buccaneers' return man in Saturday night's wild-card matchup against Washington with Kenjon Barner (groin) on injured reserve.

Ford caught three of seven targets for 37 yards during Week 17's 56-26 loss to the Bills.

Ford performed to a relatively consistent level in 2020, securing 28 of 44 targets for a career-high 276 yards through 10 games with the Dolphins. He had a fairly uncharacteristic struggle with drops during the season finale, however, though what at first appeared to be his most egregious mistake of the day turned out to have been the result of a Bills' deflection. The 24-year-old is set to become a restricted free agent this offseason.

Head coach Sean McVay said Tuesday that Kupp is expected to be activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday.

Barring a setback, Kupp will participate in Wednesday's practice in preparation for Saturday's wild-card game against the Seahawks. It remains unclear whether quarterback Jared Goff (thumb) will be back in the fold or if John Wolford will start again. Goff has been throwing at practice and is considered a game-time decision.

Hollins secured his only target for three yards during Week 17's 56-26 loss to the Bills.

Hollins appeared in all 16 games for the Dolphins in 2020, his first time logging a full season since playing for the Eagles as a rookie in 2017. While working with both Tua Tagovailoa and Ryan Fitzpatrick in that span, Hollins caught 16 of 25 targets for 176 yards and the second touchdown of his career. The 27-year-old is set to hit free agency this offseason, but his relatively reliable stint with Miami may make it easier for Hollins to secure a depth role elsewhere.

Harry finished the 2020 season with 33 catches on 57 targets for 309 yards and two TDs in 14 games.

Harry, who the Patriots took 32nd overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, headed into the campaign poised for an expanded role, but that opportunity didn't lead to significant production for the 6-4, 225-pounder. As the second wideout taken in his draft year, it's likely Harry will be given the chance to compete for a key role in the Patriots offense in 2021, but given how disappointing the team's passing attack was this past year, context-changing personnel moves are upcoming. In any case, Harry's size and ability to make contested catches give him a degree of red-zone upside, but he'll have much to prove in his third season as a pro before he can be viewed as a reliable fantasy option.

McLaurin (ankle) was listed as a non-participant on Tuesday's practice estimate, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.

The same applies to running back Antonio Gibson (toe). Given that both players played through their respective issues in Washington's Week 17 win over the Eagles, it's likely that the duo's Tuesday listing is indicative of both key skill players simply managing their injuries as Saturday night's playoff opener against the Buccaneers approaches.

Evans (knee) was listed as a non-participant on Tuesday's practice estimate, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

On the plus side, Evans, who suffered a hyperextended knee this past Sunday, avoided structural damage and was on the field for Tuesday's walk-through. At this stage it's too early to know if the wideout will be available for Saturday's playoff opener against Washington, but coach Bruce Arians noted Tuesday that he's hopeful on that front.

Hart reverted to the Seahawks' practice squad Monday, per the NFL's official transaction log.

Hart logged three snaps on offense and 19 on special teams. The Georgia State product suited up in 13 total games this year, mustering up a mere 22 yards on two touches. Hart will remain on standby, but his role isn't expected to grow without an injury to a starter.