Dolphins Release Star Receiver Tyreek Hill
The Miami Dolphins have released star wide receiver Tyreek Hill in a surprising move reportedly made to manage the team's salary cap. The move is expected to have significant ripple effects on the AFC's competitive landscape. The Arizona Cardinals are also expected to pursue quarterback Malik Willis in free agency.
- The move saves the Dolphins approximately $22.9 million in salary cap space for the 2026 season, though it also leaves the team with a $28.2 million dead money charge. Hill was set to have a cap hit of $51.1 million in 2026, which would have been the highest for any non-quarterback in the league. - Hill signed a four-year, $120 million contract upon being traded to Miami in 2022 and later agreed to a restructured three-year, $90 million deal in August 2024. - His production saw a significant drop-off after his first two seasons in Miami, where he led the league with 3,509 receiving yards from 2022-2023. Over the 2024 and 2025 seasons, his output fell to a combined 1,224 yards and seven touchdowns. - The eight-time Pro Bowl selection suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 4 of the 2025 season, which included a torn ACL and a dislocated knee. - The Dolphins' decision comes under a new leadership regime, with Jeff Hafley taking over as head coach and Jon-Eric Sullivan as the new general manager, signaling a rebuilding phase. - Hill was not the only veteran released; the Dolphins also parted ways with pass rusher Bradley Chubb, guard James Daniels, and wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine to clear cap space. - During his tenure with the Dolphins, Hill recorded 340 receptions for 4,733 yards and 29 touchdowns across 54 games. - Potential landing spots for the 32-year-old receiver include a reunion with the Kansas City Chiefs, as well as other contenders like the Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Chargers, and Washington Commanders.
