The Tyreek Hill era with the Miami Dolphins has officially concluded, marking the end of a chapter filled with thrilling highs and challenging lows. Hill's 2025 season came to an abrupt halt in Week 4 due to a dislocated knee and torn ACL.
Even before this setback, whispers of his departure from the Dolphins in 2026 were circulating. On Monday, it became official: Hill was released in a move aimed at saving cap space.
The Dolphins' decision to release Hill, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, frees up $22.8 million against the salary cap. At 32, Hill is recovering from his injury and is set to become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career. This move was part of a broader strategy, as the Dolphins also released Bradley Chubb, with further decisions looming, particularly regarding QB Tua Tagovailoa, who is guaranteed $54 million in 2026.
For Hill, the timing might just be fortuitous. The upcoming free agent class lacks seasoned wide receivers, making him a standout option for teams looking to bolster their offensive lineup. Several NFL contenders could benefit from his explosive playmaking abilities.
The Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens are on the hunt for a dynamic wide receiver to elevate their offenses. Meanwhile, the New England Patriots might view Hill as the missing piece that could have propelled them during their Super Bowl pursuits.
However, a return to the Kansas City Chiefs seems like a compelling possibility. Such a move would not only fill a critical need for Kansas City but also offer Hill a chance to reunite with Travis Kelce, potentially before the star tight end retires.
Chiefs defensive lineman Chris Jones has already started the recruitment, expressing that "it's time" for Hill to come back to the team that drafted him in 2016. During his tenure with the Chiefs, Hill amassed 6,630 receiving yards and 62 total touchdowns, showcasing his game-changing talent. While questions remain about his ability to return to peak form post-surgery, his potential impact on the field is undeniable.