Kosport Magazine: Cleveland Browns Make Smart Signing in Justin Hardee
The Cleveland Browns have made a smart signing in free agency, and it’s one that may go overlooked. The Browns have signed Cleveland native and former Jets Pro Bowler Justin Hardee.
This may not seem like a big move, but it’s a smart one. Hardee is known for his special teams prowess, and with the NFL’s recent adjustments to the kickoff, there will likely be more kickoff returns this season. Hardee, who is 30 years old, has established himself as one of the top special teams players in the league during his time with the Jets.
Although he is a cornerback by trade, Hardee has made a name for himself on special teams since entering the NFL in 2017 with the New Orleans Saints. In 2022, he earned his first Pro Bowl selection for his impressive play on special teams. One of his standout moments was a forced fumble against the Steelers’ Gunner Olszewski, which helped the Jets secure a comeback win in Week 4 of that season.
Interestingly, Hardee actually played as a receiver during his college years at Illinois from 2012-2016. He had a career-high nine catches for 125 yards in his final regular season game against Northwestern.
As a proud Cleveland native, Hardee was overheard telling former Browns quarterback Joe Flacco to “bring a championship” to the city after the Browns’ win over the Jets last season. Now, he will have the opportunity to contribute to the Browns’ quest for their first Super Bowl appearance.
Kosport Magazine Summary:
The Cleveland Browns have made a smart signing in Justin Hardee, a Cleveland native and former Jets Pro Bowler. Hardee’s special teams prowess and the NFL’s recent adjustments to the kickoff make him a valuable addition to the team. Despite being a cornerback by trade, Hardee has made a name for himself on special teams and even played as a receiver in college. As a proud Cleveland native, Hardee is determined to help the Browns bring a championship to the city.
