After the conclusion of the regular season, the Miami Dolphins have swiftly made significant changes within their organization. Owner Stephen Ross has announced the termination of head coach Mike McDaniel after a four-year tenure. In a strategic move to reshape the team’s future, the Dolphins have also secured Jon-Eric Sullivan, the former vice president of player personnel with the Green Bay Packers, as their new general manager. Sullivan will take over from Chris Grier, who dedicated 26 years to the franchise in various roles.
As the Dolphins embark on a pivotal offseason, they face critical decisions, particularly regarding five-time All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill. After suffering a major dislocated knee injury that sidelined him for much of the recent season, Hill’s future with Miami is uncertain. His contract features a staggering $51 million cap hit for the 2026 season and a $27.6 million cap hit for 2025. Hill’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, has assured that the star receiver is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for Week 1 of the 2026 campaign. Nonetheless, this financial burden could prove unsustainable for the Dolphins, particularly with the potential of preferring younger, draft-based talent.
Analysts are weighing in on Hill’s situation, with ESPN’s Marcel Louis-Jacques asserting it is unlikely Hill will return under his current contract. Additionally, Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson has indicated that Hill is “expected to be a cap casualty,” especially since there are no guaranteed funds remaining on his deal.
If the Dolphins decide to release Hill, it could result in $22 million savings against the cap, with an initial $28 million impact in dead money. However, designating Hill as a post-June 1 cut could enhance the financial relief to $35 million while reducing dead money to $15.8 million. This strategic designation allows the Dolphins to effectively manage their salary cap and avoid triggering offseason payments.
Sullivan, the new general manager, has previously emphasized the importance of building a team through the draft, which may influence the Dolphins’ handling of veteran players like Hill, who will be 32 years old by the 2026 season.
During his four seasons with the Dolphins, Hill made a remarkable impact, achieving two All-Pro selections and setting records for both receiving yards and touchdowns. His arrival marked a resurgence for Miami, leading to back-to-back postseason appearances for the first time since the early 2000s, although they fell short in both playoff contests.
Hill’s last outing as a Dolphin was a memorable 27-21 victory against the Jets, where he caught six passes for 67 yards before his injury. As the Dolphins navigate their upcoming decisions, Hill’s status will undoubtedly be a focal point in their efforts to shape a competitive team for the future.