Miami has released star receiver Tyreek Hill. This move marks a significant shift for the team. It is part of major roster cuts. The Dolphins are entering a new era. New general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley are leading the change. They aim to remake the roster. This overhaul comes after consecutive losing seasons. The team missed the playoffs twice in a row. Hill’s release is a big bombshell. It happened on President’s Day 2026. The move clears substantial cap space. This is crucial for Miami’s financial flexibility. It also signals a departure from the previous regime’s strategy.
Tyreek Hill’s Departure
Tyreek Hill’s tenure with the Miami Dolphins is over. He was released on February 16, 2026. This ends his four-year run with the team. Hill turns 32 on March 1. He is currently recovering from a serious knee injury. The injury occurred in September 2025. It was a season-ending dislocated knee. The injury included torn ligaments. He underwent surgery for the significant damage. His contract had a large cap hit for 2026. This made his release a likely outcome. The Dolphins save about $23 million in cap space. However, the team absorbs a $28 million dead cap hit. Hill signed a four-year, $120 million extension in 2022. He later restructured his deal in 2024. This pushed his guaranteed money to over $106 million. None of his 2026 salary was guaranteed. But $11 million would have vested in March 2026. His cap number for 2026 was over $51 million. This was a major financial burden.
A Troubled Season and Declining Production
Hill’s 2025 season was cut short. He suffered the knee injury in Week 4. It happened against the New York Jets. He had 21 catches for 265 yards and one touchdown. This was a significant drop from his earlier performance. In his first two years with Miami, Hill had consecutive 1,700-yard seasons. He led the league with 1,799 yards in 2023. He also had 13 touchdowns that year. His production dipped in 2024. He recorded 81 catches for 959 yards. This was his lowest total since 2019. The injury further impacted his output. There is uncertainty about his playing future. His recovery timeline is lengthy. His age and injury concern potential suitors. He becomes an unrestricted free agent.
Broader Roster Overhaul
The Dolphins are cutting several other key players. Pro Bowl pass rusher Bradley Chubb is also released. Offensive lineman James Daniels is cut. Receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine also faces release. These moves collectively clear over $56 million in 2026 cap space. The Dolphins also face decisions regarding quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. His future is uncertain. The team’s new leadership wants to reshape the roster. They inherited a team with significant cap issues.
Financial and Strategic Motivations
Financial considerations drove these decisions. The Dolphins were over the salary cap. The new regime needs financial flexibility. Releasing these veterans creates significant cap relief. Bradley Chubb had a $31.2 million cap hit for 2026. His release saves about $7.3 million. However, it results in nearly $24 million in dead cap. James Daniels signed a three-year, $24 million deal last offseason. He played only three snaps in 2025. He suffered a pectoral injury. His release saves about $6.5 million in 2027. It results in a $4.8 million dead cap charge for 2026. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine signed a two-year, $6.5 million deal. He caught 11 passes for 89 yards in 2025. His release saves $1.5 million in 2026. It adds $1.6 million in dead cap. These moves total substantial savings. They allow Miami to pursue new talent.
The New Era in Miami
General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and Head Coach Jeff Hafley are tasked with rebuilding. They aim for “responsible aggression.” Sullivan stated this upon his introduction. The team holds the No. 11 overall pick in the upcoming draft. They need to fill significant roster holes. The wide receiver room is particularly depleted. Jaylen Waddle and Malik Washington are key returnees. The departure of Hill creates a massive void. The Dolphins are looking for new playmakers. This roster reset signals a clear change in direction. The team is moving past the previous era. The focus is now on building for the future. This current Miami news reflects a pivotal moment for the franchise.
