Disgraced former NFLer Greg Hardy was attempting to become a mixed martial artist last fall, but he’s now looking to get back on the gridiron. Hardy has submitted an application for a spot in the newly formed, four-team Spring League, reports the Associated Press. If approved, he’d join ex-NFL tight end Kellen Winslow II and perhaps former pros Johnny Manziel and Ray Rice, both of whom have received invitations to participate in the league – which isn’t affiliated with the NFL.
Like Rice, Hardy is a controversial figure because of a domestic violence incident. Once a star defensive end, Hardy’s stock began plummeting when he was found guilty in 2014 of assaulting his ex-girlfriend, though her decision not to testify against him led to the dropping of charges. Then a member of the Panthers, Hardy sat out all but one game that season after commissioner Roger Goodell placed him on the league’s exempt list.
Hardy joined the Cowboys as a free agent in 2015, but he served a four-game suspension to begin the year and, while productive in 12 games, was an off-field headache and public relations nightmare in Dallas. Nobody signed Hardy last year as a result, and he was indicted on a felony count of cocaine possession in November.
Despite his myriad off-field issues, Hardy is certainly talented enough to play in the NFL, evidenced by his 40 sacks in 75 games. Some scouts from around the pros will be on hand to observe Spring League games, which will take place in April and could include Hardy. The 28-year-old won’t earn a salary if the Spring League accepts him. Landing another NFL contract, although unlikely, would certainly offset that.
Sounds like one of the team names could be ‘Mean Machine’ and maybe have Burt Reynolds QB them!
Best comment ever!