Dolphins Release Star Wide Receiver Tyreek Hill in Major Roster Shake-Up

The Miami Dolphins have released veteran wide receiver Tyreek Hill, ending his four-season tenure with the team and marking one of the most significant roster moves of the 2026 NFL offseason.

Hill, an eight-time Pro Bowl selection and five-time first-team All-Pro, was cut as part of a series of cost-saving roster changes aimed at creating salary cap flexibility and rebuilding the team under new leadership.

The decision also comes amid uncertainty surrounding Hill’s health. He suffered a serious knee injury in the 2025 season, including a dislocated knee and torn ligaments, and his recovery timeline remains unclear.

Salary cap, injuries, and rebuilding drive decision

Hill’s release reflects broader structural changes within the Dolphins organization. New head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan are reshaping the roster after Miami missed the playoffs in consecutive seasons.

Hill’s contract carried a significant cap hit, and releasing him now allows the team to save millions while accelerating its rebuilding effort. Hill’s age, injury status, and salary obligations made him a likely candidate for release as the Dolphins sought financial flexibility and a cultural reset.

The Dolphins’ roster moves are expected to clear tens of millions in salary cap space, positioning the franchise to pursue younger talent through free agency and the NFL draft.

A historic career and explosive impact in Miami

Hill joined the Dolphins in 2022 following a blockbuster trade from the Kansas City Chiefs and quickly became the centerpiece of Miami’s offense. In his first two seasons with the team, he posted back-to-back campaigns with over 1,700 receiving yards, including a league-leading 1,799 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2023.

Over his career, Hill has amassed more than 11,000 receiving yards and 83 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the most dangerous deep threats in NFL history.

However, his production declined following injuries, and he failed to replicate his early dominance in recent seasons.

What’s next for Hill?

Despite his release and injury concerns, Hill is expected to attract interest from teams seeking a proven offensive playmaker. His elite speed and playmaking ability remain valuable assets, though his long-term durability will be a key factor in determining his next destination.

Hill enters free agency at age 31 and can sign with another team immediately. While his future remains uncertain, his legacy as one of the NFL’s most electrifying wide receivers is firmly established.

Sources: NBC Sports, ESPN, NFL.com