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Daniel Hardy

Daniel Hardy Player Profile

Summary

Daniel Hardy is an athletic defensive end / edge-rusher currently with the Chicago Bears (NFL). He was selected in the 7th round (235th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams after a strong finish to his college career at Montana State Bobcats, where he displayed explosive traits and pass-rush upside. Los Angeles Rams

  • Height/Weight: ~6′2″, ~255 lbs. Chicago Bears

  • Draft & early career: Drafted 2022, 7th round. Has spent time with the Rams before joining the Bears.

Hardy is considered a developmental piece with intriguing athleticism but some technique and consistency issues to overcome.

Strengths

  • Explosion / burst: At his pro day and combine-type testing, Hardy posted excellent explosion metrics (for example, a high RAS score) which indicate that he can close quickly and threaten the edge. Los Angeles Rams

  • Length and athletic frame: While not enormous by traditional edge standards, he brings above-average length for his size, which helps in redirecting plays and using his reach. CBS Sports

  • Versatility / scheme flexibility: He has been used as an edge rusher in some sets, and has the athletic profile to possibly play multiple roles (e.g., stand-up outside linebacker or situational pass rusher) in the right system. SI

  • Reliable in space / backside pursuit: In college and in pre-draft analysis, Hardy was noted for his ability to pursue from the backside, make plays on screens or in space, and show more mobility than you’d expect at his size. SI

Weaknesses

  • Size / strength limitations for run-defense: Analysts pointed out in his draft profile that Hardy struggles when asked to anchor or hold the point of attack in the run game. For example: “He fails to set the edge, not gaining inside hand positioning and extending.” SI

  • Pass-rush technique / hand usage underdeveloped: His upside is more physical than polished. Reports suggest his hand-usage, counter moves, and rush plan are still raw; he often rushes without a detailed plan and lacks “violence” in his hands. SI

  • Production translating to NFL level: As of the latest seasons, his defensive snap count and statistical production remain modest, suggesting that the transition from college to pro is still in progress. PlayerProfiler

  • Role clarity / consistency: There’s some uncertainty whether his best role is as a full-time edge rusher, a situational pass-rusher, or a hybrid linebacker/edge. That ambiguity can slow development. Turf Show Times

Fit & Outlook

Hardy’s long-term outlook is one of high upside but developmental risk. If he can refine his technique (particularly hand usage, leverage, rush plan) and improve his consistency, he has the physical tools to be a valuable rotational edge rusher or situational pass-rush weapon.

In the nearer term:

  • Expect him to carve out a role in the rotation, especially on third downs or in obvious passing situations where his burst and speed to the edge matter.

  • He may also continue to contribute meaningfully on special teams and situational pass-rush packages while building his defensive snaps. (Indeed, his early career indicates time on special teams and limited defensive snaps.) Chicago Bears

  • For him to step into a larger role or become a more consistent starter, the key will be improving his run-defense chops (setting the edge), getting better at finishing blocks, and turning athletic promise into consistent wins on the line.