Atlanta Falcons

Justin Hardy has solid rookie debut in tough loss to Buccaneers

Published Nov. 1, 2015 11:07 p.m. ET

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For rookie wide receiver Justin Hardy, Sunday was probably filled with mixed emotions. While the former East Carolina wide receiver didn't see any action until Week 8, he finally got his number called and grabbed a pair of catches.

On the other side, his Atlanta Falcons lost 23-20 in overtime to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, making the debut a bit less exciting.

Regardless, Hardy not only had two catches for 21 yards, but both of them resulted in first downs. Hardy's debut has been long awaited for fans, and head coach Dan Quinn gave a strong review of the young wide out, according to Andrew Hirsh of AtlantaFalcons.com.

“Everyone was so excited for him to get his opportunity,” Quinn told the team's official site of Hardy. “So today, we knew he was ready. He’s been working extremely hard.”

Hardy will be a name to watch moving forward in this offense, and there's a very good chance he'll carve out a nice role moving forward.

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