Justin Hardee, a star player on special teams, has signed with the Browns.
Tuesday saw the addition of Justin Hardee Sr. to the Cleveland Browns’ roster via free agency. Hardee is an elite special teams player.
Hardee’s signing was formally revealed by the Browns on Tuesday through a press release. Originally from Cleveland, Hardee plays cornerback but has established himself on special teams. He was recognized as a Pro Bowl player in 2022 due to his exceptional performance on special teams. The Browns are hoping that Hardee, who led by example for the New York Jets, will do the same in Cleveland.
Illinois native Hardee is starting his ninth NFL season. In 2017, Houston signed him as an undrafted free agent for the first time. In his career, Hardee has played in 100 games for the Jets (2021–2023) and New Orleans Saints (2017–20). In his career, he has racked up 63 special teams tackles and one interception. He played in 11 games the previous season and recorded five special teams tackles.
A Unique Bond Between Justin Hardee and the Browns
In 2022, Hardee had a memorable play against the Browns when he recovered an onside kick, which enabled the Jets to rally and win 31-30. He was playing in front of his hometown supporters for the first time.
“I was grinning astonished. I was raised here, therefore this is actually where I’m from. Back then, Hardee remarked, “Just wow, I made it through all this, from being from the inner city and just to see where I came from.” “Even if I didn’t make a play, it would still be special to be able to play in the game because I know how passionate the city is about the Browns.” This was the first game in my life that didn’t feel like an away game, and the way it all went down was insane.
After joining Cleveland for the 2018 season, Bubba Ventrone leads the Browns’ special teams unit, which Hardee now joins. Additionally, he will aid in bridging the gap left by Mike Ford’s departure. Ford was a mainstay on the Browns’ special teams squad during the previous campaign. This offseason, Ford inked a contract with the Houston Texans.
This season, special teams plays will receive greater attention, particularly with the addition of the new kickoff regulation. Hardee is prepared to leave his mark.
“Everyone forgets how Special Teams win and lose games around this time until it’s too late! However, we will see,” Hardee wrote on X.
Nyheim Hines was also signed by the Browns to bolster their special teams.
Nyheim Hines was another intriguing addition the Browns made in the summer. With the new rules in place, the 27-year-old running back ought to be a weapon returning the ball. Although he understands he will be needed to make some plays in the return game, he still wants to contribute offensively.
Hines declared, “I’m not that. I’ve been hearing this whole return-specialist thing.” on the Up & Adams program. “I think I’m an offensive player, but I also enjoy returning kicks. However, I enjoy doing both.
Throughout his career, Hines has returned two punts and four kickoffs for touchdowns. January 2023, when he played for the Buffalo Bills, was his most memorable game. In one game, he returned a kickoff and a punt, something that only ten other players in NFL history had accomplished.
