The Dolphins ended the four-year Tyreek Hill era when they released the decorated wide receiver on Feb. 16. The move opened up significant savings for the Dolphins. Hill was due to count an untenable $51.1MM against the cap before the Dolphins gave him his walking papers.
Miami could have attempted to retain Hill at a lower price tag, but that was never an option for the team. Agent Drew Rosenhaus revealed that he and the Dolphins did not discuss a pay cut for Hill, per Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. Rosenhaus added that Miami’s goal is to assemble a younger roster. Keeping Hill, who will turn 32 on March 1, would have worked against that plan.
While Hill plans to return for an 11th season in 2026, he is on the mend from a severe knee injury that could continue to hinder him in the future. Hill’s season ended in Week 4 when he tore multiple ligaments, including his ACL, and dislocated his knee.
In yet another factor that should lower the value of Hill’s next contract, the NFL is investigating domestic violence accusations against him. There have been three known domestic violence allegations against Hill dating to his time in college. Oklahoma State kicked Hill off its football and track teams in 2014 after he pleaded guilty to domestic violence. Hill resurfaced on West Alabama’s football team the next year. The Chiefs took the speedster in the fifth round of the 2016 draft, and he has since put together a Hall of Fame-caliber career.
Although Hill is an eight-time Pro Bowler and a five-time first-team All-Pro, he has encountered a “tepid” market since the Dolphins cut him, Jason La Canfora of SportsBoom reports. Multiple league executives who are seeking receiver upgrades told La Canfora they want no part of Hill. There are concerns over Hill’s fading physical skills and his questionable locker room presence, sources informed La Canfora.
“No chance. We think he’s done,” one general manager said. “He isn’t a difference-maker anymore. The juice isn’t worth the squeeze. Not even as a vet-minimum guy for us.”
Combining his age, injury and off-field troubles, Hill looks like a prime candidate for a prove-it deal in 2026. The 5-foot-10, 191-pounder was productive during his most recently healthy campaign in 2024, though he began showing signs of decline that year. Hill’s numbers (81 catches, 959 yards and six touchdowns) fell well short of his typical output, and his stock has continued to drop since then.