Justin Hardy stands as one of the most accomplished wide receivers in football history.
From his record-breaking college career to his successful NFL stint and now his dominance in the Canadian Football League, Hardy has built an impressive legacy that spans multiple leagues.
Hardy’s current net worth stems from his extensive professional football career, combining NFL earnings of $3.7 million with his ongoing CFL success and endorsement opportunities.
Justin Hardy’s Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Justin Hardy |
| Date of Birth | December 18, 1991 |
| Age | 33 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’11” (1.80m) |
| Weight | 192 lbs (87kg) |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| College | East Carolina University |
| Turned Pro | 2015 |
| Current Team | Ottawa Redblacks (CFL) |
| @freakmagic2 | |
| @FreakMagic2 |
Early Career
Justin Hardy’s journey to professional football began in the small town of Vanceboro, North Carolina, where he attended West Craven High School. Hardy started his high school career as a wide receiver but showed remarkable versatility by transitioning to quarterback during his senior year. Despite starting as a 90-pound ballboy who couldn’t get on the field as a freshman, Hardy developed into a standout athlete.
His senior season proved exceptional as Hardy threw for 2,500 yards and 35 passing touchdowns while playing quarterback. He also participated in basketball as a shooting guard and point guard, plus competed in track and field as a high jumper with a personal best of 6’4″. Hardy earned three letters across multiple sports, demonstrating his natural athletic ability.
College recruiters didn’t heavily pursue Hardy despite his high school success. He nearly committed to Fayetteville State before deciding to walk on at East Carolina University in 2010.
Hardy initially signed a national letter of intent with Fayetteville State but changed his mind within two months. This decision to walk on at ECU would prove transformative for his football career and set the foundation for his professional success.
Professional Career
Hardy’s professional career began after an outstanding college tenure at East Carolina University where he set multiple records. The Atlanta Falcons selected him in the fourth round (107th overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft. Hardy spent five seasons in Atlanta from 2015-2019, appearing in 73 games and recording 95 receptions for 946 yards and nine touchdowns.
His NFL career included a memorable Super Bowl LI appearance with the Falcons in 2017. Hardy described the experience as “unbelievable” and called it a dream come true.
After his time in Atlanta, he briefly joined the Chicago Bears in 2021 but was released before the season began. Hardy then made the transition to the Canadian Football League, signing with the Ottawa Redblacks in March 2022.
Hardy’s CFL career has been remarkable, with back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2023 and 2024. In 2024, he led the CFL with 97 receptions while finishing second in receiving yards with 1,343.
His exceptional performance earned him All-CFL honors and a nomination for Most Outstanding Player. Hardy signed a one-year contract extension with Ottawa in January 2025, ensuring his continued presence in the nation’s capital.
Justin Hardy’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Justin Hardy’s net worth is estimated between $3-5 million, primarily built through his professional football earnings. His wealth comes from NFL contracts, CFL salaries, and potential endorsement deals.
Contract
Hardy signed a one-year contract extension with the Ottawa Redblacks in January 2025. The deal keeps him in Ottawa through the 2025 season, though specific financial terms were not disclosed publicly.
His previous 2024 contract with Ottawa was reportedly worth around $140,000 in guaranteed money. Hardy was ranked as the fifth-best free agent in the CFL before re-signing with Ottawa.
Salary
Hardy’s current CFL salary structure includes base salary, housing allowances, and marketing bonuses typical of CFL contracts. While his exact 2025 salary hasn’t been revealed, his status as an All-CFL receiver likely commands one of the higher salaries for American players in the league.
CFL salaries are significantly lower than NFL contracts, with top receivers typically earning $150,000-$200,000 annually.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Base Salary | Signing Bonus | Total Cash |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Atlanta Falcons | $435,000 | $540,821 | $975,820 |
| 2016 | Atlanta Falcons | $525,000 | $0 | $525,000 |
| 2017 | Atlanta Falcons | $615,000 | $0 | $615,000 |
| 2018 | Atlanta Falcons | $705,000 | $0 | $705,000 |
| 2019 | Atlanta Falcons | $805,000 | $90,000 | $895,000 |
| 2021 | Chicago Bears | $990,000 | $0 | $990,000 |
| Total NFL | $4,705,820 |
Career Stats
NFL Career
| Season | Team | Games | Receptions | Yards | TDs | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Atlanta | 9 | 21 | 194 | 0 | 9.2 |
| 2016 | Atlanta | 16 | 21 | 203 | 4 | 9.7 |
| 2017 | Atlanta | 16 | 20 | 221 | 3 | 11.1 |
| 2018 | Atlanta | 16 | 14 | 133 | 2 | 9.5 |
| 2019 | Atlanta | 16 | 19 | 195 | 0 | 10.3 |
| NFL Total | 73 | 95 | 946 | 9 | 10.0 |
CFL Career
| Season | Team | Games | Receptions | Yards | TDs | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Ottawa | 7 | 44 | 416 | 0 | 9.5 |
| 2023 | Ottawa | 18 | 85 | 1,009 | 3 | 11.9 |
| 2024 | Ottawa | 16 | 97 | 1,343 | 5 | 13.8 |
| 2025 | Ottawa | 4 | 15 | 201 | 1 | 13.4 |
| CFL Total | 45 | 241 | 2,969 | 9 | 12.3 |
College Career at East Carolina
| Season | Games | Receptions | Yards | TDs | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 10 | 64 | 658 | 6 | 10.3 |
| 2012 | – | 88 | 1,105 | 11 | 12.6 |
| 2013 | 13 | 114 | 1,284 | 8 | 11.3 |
| 2014 | – | 121 | 1,494 | 10 | 12.3 |
| Total | 49 | 387 | 4,541 | 35 | 11.7 |
FAQs
1. What is Justin Hardy’s age and when was he born?
Justin Hardy was born on December 18, 1991, making him 33 years old. He was born in Washington, DC but grew up in Vanceboro, North Carolina where he attended West Craven High School.
2. How much money did Justin Hardy make in the NFL?
Hardy earned approximately $3.7 million during his NFL career with the Atlanta Falcons from 2015-2019. His largest contract was his rookie deal worth $2.8 million over four years, plus a one-year extension worth $895,000.
3. What records did Hardy set in college football?
Hardy set the NCAA all-time reception record with 387 catches during his career at East Carolina University from 2011-2014. He broke Ryan Broyles’ previous record of 349 receptions in a game against Tulane on November 22, 2014.
4. Why did Hardy switch from NFL to CFL?
After being released by the Chicago Bears, Hardy joined the Ottawa Redblacks to continue his professional career. The move to the CFL has been successful, with Hardy becoming one of the league’s top receivers and earning All-CFL honors.
5. What team does Justin Hardy currently play for?
Hardy currently plays for the Ottawa Redblacks in the Canadian Football League. He signed a one-year contract extension to remain with the team through the 2025 season after leading the CFL in receptions during.
