In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL landscape, the Miami Dolphins officially released All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill today, February 17, 2026.
The decision comes as Miami looks to navigate a “dire” salary cap situation, saving approximately $22.8 million in immediate space. Despite a 2025 season cut short by a dislocated knee and ACL tear in Week 4, “The Cheetah” remains the most explosive weapon in football. Now an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his 10-year career, Hill is the center of a league-wide bidding war.
Here are the five most likely landing spots for Tyreek Hill as he enters the 2026 free-agency cycle.
1. Kansas City Chiefs: The Ultimate Reunion
The most poetic—and perhaps most logical—destination is a return to Arrowhead.
The Fit: Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid have never truly replaced Hill’s unique vertical threat.
The Incentive: Reuniting the “Legion of Zoom” would immediately make the Chiefs the favorites for Super Bowl LXI.
The Hurdle: Cap space is always tight in KC, but for a player like Hill, GM Brett Veach is known for finding a way.
2. New England Patriots: A Weapon for Drake Maye
NFL insider Robert Griffin III has already voiced that the Patriots should be the frontrunners.
The Fit: After a standout year for young QB Drake Maye, New England is desperate for a veteran WR1 to mentor their young core.
The Logic: With Stefon Diggs’ future in New England uncertain, Hill would give Maye the most dangerous deep threat in the AFC East.
3. Baltimore Ravens: Giving Lamar his “Chess Piece”
Could Tyreek Hill be the key to getting Lamar Jackson to solidify his long-term future in Baltimore?
The Dynamic: Combining the league’s most elusive runner with its fastest receiver would create a defensive nightmare.
Rumor Mill: PFT’s Mike Florio suggests the Ravens are “in play” as they look for that final piece to overcome their postseason hurdles.
4. Dallas Cowboys: Jerry Jones Goes All-In
If there is a “splash” move to be made, Jerry Jones is usually in the middle of it.
The Scenario: Pairing Tyreek Hill with CeeDee Lamb would give the Cowboys the most formidable receiving duo in the NFC.
The Motivation: After a disappointing 2025 campaign, Dallas needs a move that re-energizes a frustrated fanbase.
5. New York Jets: The Rivalry Flip
The Jets have seen Hill’s damage firsthand for years in the AFC East.
The Revenge Factor: Staying in the division to play against the team that just released him could be an enticing narrative for Hill.
The Personnel: Adding Hill to an offense featuring Garrett Wilson would provide the Jets with the elite speed they’ve lacked.
The Bottom Line: Is Tyreek Hill Still the Same Player?
At nearly 32 years old and coming off major reconstructive knee surgery, skeptics wonder if the “world-class speed” will remain intact. However, Hill’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, maintains that the receiver is on track for a Week 1 return in 2026.
