The Miami Dolphins concluded their 2025 season on a disappointing note, suffering a 38-10 loss to the New England Patriots and finishing with a 7-10 record. This marked the first time since 2019 that the team experienced double-digit losses in a season. While head coach Mike McDaniel appears to be safe in his position, the future of interim general manager Champ Kelly remains uncertain. The Dolphins face critical decisions regarding quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s contract, with indications suggesting he may have played his last game for the franchise.
Amidst these turbulent changes, Tyreek Hill stands out as a player whose future with the Dolphins seems all but decided. After a disappointing 2024 season in which Hill failed to surpass 1,000 receiving yards for the first time since an injury-plagued 2019, his 2025 campaign ended prematurely due to a severe knee injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the season after just four games. Although he might be ready for a return in the 2026 season, there are strong indications that he will need to continue his career elsewhere.
The probability of Hill’s departure is largely tied to financial considerations. He carries a hefty $51.9 million cap hit against the Dolphins’ 2026 salary cap, a burden that is unsustainable for any player not playing quarterback. If Hill had managed to rebound in 2025, an extension might have alleviated some of this pressure; however, the unfortunate circumstances of his and the team’s season make that unlikely. By designating Hill as a post-June 1 release, the Dolphins could save over $36 million, transforming their projected cap space from a deficit of $15.65 million to a surplus of over $20 million.
Moreover, with the possibility of parting ways with Tua Tagovailoa also looming, the Dolphins are in urgent need of financial maneuvering to remain competitive in the upcoming season. Hill’s age is another factor, as he will turn 32 by the start of the 2026 season—compounding concerns about his durability and performance decline alongside ongoing questions about his maturity and character.
Despite his past accomplishments, including two consecutive 1,700-yard seasons, it appears that Tyreek Hill’s era in Miami is coming to an end. As the Dolphins navigate their challenges in the off-season, they face the daunting task of reconfiguring their roster while bidding farewell to one of their most prominent playmakers. This transition may present opportunities for rejuvenating the team and finding new strengths in the future.