Hardy is a really good athlete with size that’s capable of succeeding at multiple positions on the next level. It appears he’ll get his first crack at linebacker for South Dakota, where he committed on June 17. You certainly see why the Coyotes like him at that spot. Hardy’s quickness and agility work very well there. He can pursue off of the edge or operate more traditionally on the defense’s second level. There’s a lot to like when watching his 11th-grade highlight video. You see Hardy diagnosing plays pre-snap and communicating with his teammates. He’s explosive and disciplined with a frame capable of adding strength without him losing any of the traits that pack him with potential.

Hardy is a linear linebacker that covers a lot of ground. He boasts the athleticism and versatility to move around the formation. He looks comfortable lining up at middle linebacker or coming off of the edge. Hardy shines on his junior highlight video, running down the ball from sideline to sideline and proving difficult to block. His 42.5 tackles (29 solo, 11.5 TFL) and 2.0 sacks heped the Warriors reach the state semifinals, where they lost to eventual champion Wahlert, 17-16.