The Miami Dolphins have a big decision to make when it comes to their star wide receiver, Tyreek Hill. After a rocky 2024 season, things are looking uncertain for him. Hill’s been a huge part of Miami’s offense, but with his frustrations boiling over, a dip in his performance, and some big financial questions hanging in the air, his future with the team isn’t exactly clear.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the situation.
Financial Realities And Cap Implications
Releasing Tyreek Hill outright would be a financial disaster for the Dolphins. Cutting him before June 1 would result in a staggering $56 million dead-cap hit, while a post-June 1 cut would still leave $40.3 million in dead money. These figures make a release highly unlikely, especially with the Dolphins needing to maintain cap flexibility heading into 2025.
Trading Hill is a more feasible option, but it’s not without challenges. A trade before June 1 would saddle Miami with $28.2 million in dead money, whereas a post-June 1 trade would reduce the hit to $12.7 million. For context, Hill’s contract was restructured in 2024, adding complexity to any move. The Dolphins could save significantly by moving Hill and avoiding a massive $51.89 million payout due in 2026.
On-Field Performance And Trade Market
Hill’s production dipped from a career-high 1,799 receiving yards in 2023 to just 959 yards in 2024, which was his least productive season since 2019. In the 2024 regular season, he recorded 81 receptions, 959 receiving yards, and 6 touchdowns across 17 games, with an average of 11.8 yards per reception on 123 targets. Despite the drop in numbers, he remains one of the NFL’s top receivers, having previously ranked as the league’s best in a peer-voted list.
Hill’s production dipped from a career-high 1,799 receiving yards in 2023 to just 959 yards in 2024, which was his least productive season since 2019. In the 2024 regular season, he recorded 81 receptions, 959 receiving yards, and 6 touchdowns across 17 games, with an average of 11.8 yards per reception on 123 targets. Despite the drop in numbers, he remains one of the NFL’s top receivers, having previously ranked as the league’s best in a peer-voted list.
Hill’s speed and playmaking ability have been crucial to head coach Mike McDaniel’s offense. However, his age (turning 31 in March) and rumors of a potential wrist surgery may temper trade interest. Over his career, Hill has garnered 798 receptions, 11,098 receiving yards, and 82 touchdowns across 141 games, averaging 13.9 yards per reception with 1,172 targets.
Potential suitors like the Falcons, Ravens, Packers, Chargers, and Commanders could make a play for Hill, especially given their needs at wide receiver. However, Hill’s market value is uncertain, as teams might hesitate to offer a first-round pick for an aging player coming off a down year. For the Dolphins, trading Hill could leave them with a depleted receiving corps, relying heavily on Jaylen Waddle and unproven talent like Malik Washington.
Therefore, the Dolphins are at a crossroads with Tyreek Hill. Cutting him would cripple their cap space while trading him could weaken their offense. If Miami keeps Hill, they must resolve his frustrations and hope for a bounce-back year.
