NFL fans just want Hard Knocks put out of its misery

The longtime HBO docu-series chronicling NFL franchises on the rise has potentially run its course, according to NFL fans. 

While sports docuseries are becoming increasingly popular, the longtime HBO series “Hard Knocks” could be at risk of getting knocked out of production.

After 16 seasons, NFL fans seem ready to put the show out of its misery.

Fans chimed in after Adam Schefter reported there would be an “announcement” concerning the future of the show during the Thursday Night Football matchup between the New York Giants and the Washington Football Team.

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Fans speculated as to whether this was an extension of the preseason-based series into the entire NFL season, expanded coverage of two teams rather than one, or a cancellation of the show altogether.

Others called for the docuseries to focus instead on Bishop Sycamore, a reportedly fictitious Ohio high school football program.

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NFL fans are done with “Hard Knocks” after the 2021 Dallas Cowboys season

Started in 2001, HBO’s “Hard Knocks” has charted the plight of an NFL team as they hope to ascend as a true post-season contender.

The name comes from the show’s requirements: teams that haven’t reached the playoffs in the past two years qualify, while teams with a first-year head coach or who have appeared in the past ten years are exempt.

This year, the Dallas Cowboys qualified: the once-powerful NFC East franchise was brought to its knees last season with the sidelining of quarterback Dak Prescott. That, along with a myriad of other issues, led the team to a 6-10 record and third place in their division.

Like every season, there were several “Hard Knocks” characters that the show spotlighted: make-or-break players on the bubble who needed a strong preseason to survive roster cuts.

In the 2021 Cowboys edition, all the highlighted players were relegated to the practice squad except for explosive defensive end Azur Kamara.

During the preseason, Kamara recorded four total tackles. He also had what would have been a game-winning sack had a flag not been called that invalidated the play. Kamara was listed as inactive during the Week 1 opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Despite the endearing player profiles, the real star of “Hard Knocks” was Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs’ son, Aaiden.

Nonetheless, Hard Knocks’ popularity is waning, and has been for quite some time. If there were ever a time to end it with a bang, it’s now.