Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill is reportedly open to exploring options outside of Miami, just one season after restructuring his contract with the team. The development comes after a disappointing end to the Dolphins’ season and a performance from Hill that saw him fail to reach 1,000 receiving yards for the first time since 2019.
Hill’s willingness to consider other teams surfaced following the Dolphins’ loss to the New York Jets, a game in which his effort level was questioned by head coach Mike McDaniel, according to reports. The situation is further complicated by the two years remaining on Hill’s current contract.
The shift in Hill’s stance is a stark contrast to his comments made when he agreed to restructure his deal with Miami. At that time, Hill expressed a strong desire to remain with the Dolphins, citing his family’s happiness in the area and his positive relationship with the coaching staff and teammates. “I want to stay here in Miami because obviously Here’s where family is now,” Hill said. “Everybody loves it here. Family loves it, wife loves it, kids love it. So obviously I love it. I love playing for Coach [Mike McDaniel] and the team. My teammates are awesome so I wouldn’t want to leave. The fans are awesome, too. I just love how the fans hold us accountable every day on Twitter. So we’re getting better, I promise you. We’re not just sitting around drinking smoothies. We’re getting better.”
ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith reacted strongly to the news on Monday, advising Hill to remain where he is. “Hell to the no,” Smith said emphatically. “Stay your ass right there.”
Smith’s assessment centered on the significant difference in playing with current Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa versus his former teammate, Patrick Mahomes, who he played with during his time with the Kansas City Chiefs. “Life’s a little bit different when you ain’t with Patrick Mahomes,” Smith continued. “We tried to tell you. We don’t want to hear about no family now. You got your bag. That ain’t family, bro. Family’s the bag. Once you get the bag, family’s taken care of. This is about you recognizing that life is a little bit different when Patrick Mahomes ain’t throwing you the football.”
Hill’s struggles to reach 1,000 receiving yards were, in part, attributed to Tagovailoa’s injury issues during the season. Despite being considered one of the NFL’s elite wide receivers, Hill’s production dipped noticeably.
As the NFL enters its 2026 offseason, the situation surrounding Hill is likely to be a key storyline. The wide receiver market is expected to be active, and Hill’s availability could attract significant interest from teams seeking a dynamic playmaker.
Smith’s comments suggest that Hill’s current situation is a direct result of leaving Mahomes, implying that the financial benefits of his contract do not outweigh the impact of playing with a less accomplished quarterback. The analyst’s blunt assessment highlights the importance of quarterback play in the NFL and the challenges faced by even the most talented receivers when paired with less-than-elite signal callers.
The Dolphins now face a potentially difficult situation as they navigate contract negotiations and team dynamics with a player who has expressed uncertainty about his long-term future with the organization. The outcome could have significant implications for the team’s success in the coming seasons.
