MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins announced Monday the release of wide receiver Tyreek Hill, bringing an end to the All-Pro’s four-year stint with the team. The move signifies a significant shift in the Dolphins’ roster as they navigate changes under new leadership. Hill, who will turn 32 on March 1, is currently in recovery from a season-ending knee injury sustained during a September 29th contest against the New York Jets.
Tyreek Hill’s Impact and Injury Recovery
The injury to Tyreek Hill necessitated surgery to address substantial damage to his left knee, including a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Prior to the injury, Hill was a dominant force for Miami, achieving consecutive seasons with over 1,700 receiving yards, culminating in a league-leading 1,799 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2023. He managed 21 receptions for 265 yards before the injury occurred in Week 4, while attempting to secure a catch against the Jets.
The Dolphins also made several other personnel decisions on Monday, including the release of offensive lineman James Daniels and receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. Additionally, the team will be releasing two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Bradley Chubb. These moves collectively represent a reshaping of the Dolphins’ roster as the organization looks toward the future.
Contract Implications and Future Outlook
Tyreek Hill arrived in Miami via a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs prior to the 2022 season, subsequently signing a four-year, $120 million contract extension that positioned him as the highest-paid player at his position at the time. That contract, extending through 2026, carried a substantial cap hit of approximately $51 million for the Dolphins. Despite a relatively less productive 2024 season – 81 catches for 959 yards, his lowest totals since 2019 – Hill expressed his intention to continue playing.
In a social media post following the announcement, Hill stated, “The Cheetah don't slow down. Ever.” He indicated his determination to return to the field, adding, “Born Again.” This suggests he intends to pursue opportunities with another team, despite the significant rehabilitation required following his knee surgery.
Dolphins Roster Overhaul Under New Management
New Dolphins general manager Jon Eric Sullivan, hired last month alongside head coach Jeff Hafley, is spearheading a roster overhaul. Sullivan stated the team would operate with “responsible aggression” and explore all avenues for player acquisition. The release of players like Bradley Chubb, who had 11 sacks in 2023 before his own ACL injury, reflects this strategy. Chubb’s contract represented a $31 million cap hit for 2026.
The team is also evaluating the future of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who signed a four-year, $212.4 million extension in July 2024 but experienced a decline in performance during the 2025 season, throwing a career-high 15 interceptions. Releasing Tagovailoa would incur a significant $99 million dead cap charge, potentially mitigated by a post-June 1 release structure. Sullivan has acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Tagovailoa’s future, emphasizing the need to “infuse competition” into the quarterback room.
