In an effort to bolster their receiving corps, the Kansas City Chiefs have activated wide receiver Mecole Hardman from injured reserve, the team announced on Saturday. Hardman had been sidelined since mid-November due to a thumb injury sustained during the Chiefs' 21-17 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on "Monday Night Football."

Following successful surgery to repair his thumb, Hardman has spent the past two weeks practicing with the team, eager to make his return to the field. With Kadarius Toney sidelined for a second consecutive game, the Chiefs will be relying on Hardman to step up and fill the void left by Toney's absence.

To accommodate Hardman's return, the Chiefs waived defensive tackle Matt Dickerson, creating room on the 53-man roster. In need of a replacement at the defensive tackle position, the Chiefs elevated practice squad veteran Mike Pennel, who will be making his third consecutive appearance. Pennel has already proven his worth, registering three tackles in the two games he has played.

The Chiefs' running back position has also faced uncertainty, with Isiah Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire both listed as questionable for the upcoming matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. To provide necessary depth at the position, Kansas City has elevated Keaontay Ingram for the game. With Jerick McKinnon on injured reserve, La'Mical Perine remains the only other healthy running back on the roster.

It's important to note that as elevated players, both Keaontay Ingram and Mike Pennel will revert back to the Chiefs' practice squad on Monday, unless further roster adjustments are made.

As the Chiefs prepare to face the Bengals on Sunday, the return of Mecole Hardman brings a much-needed boost to their receiving corps. With key players returning from injury, Kansas City aims to secure a victory as they strive to maintain their position atop the standings.