Miami Dolphins Release Star Receiver Tyreek Hill

Injury and roster overhaul lead to end of Hill's four-year tenure in Miami

Feb. 17, 2026 at 11:07pm

The Miami Dolphins have announced the release of star wide receiver Tyreek Hill, ending his four-year tenure with the team. The move comes as the Dolphins undergo a significant roster overhaul under new head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, and as Hill continues to recover from a season-ending knee injury sustained in September 2025.

Why it matters

The release of Hill represents a major shift in direction for the Dolphins, who have missed the playoffs in consecutive seasons. The team is looking to rebuild the roster and establish a new identity, with the departure of one of the league's most dynamic playmakers signaling a willingness to make difficult decisions in pursuit of long-term success.

The details

Hill, who will turn 32 on March 1, suffered a dislocated knee and multiple torn ligaments, including a torn ACL, during a game against the New York Jets in 2025. The Dolphins cited a failed physical as the reason for his release. The team also cut offensive lineman James Daniels and receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, signaling a clear intent to reshape the roster and create cap space.

  • Hill suffered the season-ending knee injury in September 2025.
  • The Dolphins announced Hill's release on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Tyreek Hill

An All-Pro wide receiver who was acquired by the Dolphins in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2022 and signed a four-year, $120 million contract extension.

Jeff Hafley

The new head coach of the Miami Dolphins, hired this offseason to replace Mike McDaniel.

Jon-Eric Sullivan

The new general manager of the Miami Dolphins, hired this offseason.

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What’s next

The Dolphins' roster cuts free up substantial cap space, allowing the team to pursue other free agents and address needs at key positions. The team will now focus on identifying players who fit their new system and contribute to a winning culture.

The takeaway

The release of Tyreek Hill marks the beginning of a new era for the Miami Dolphins, one defined by change and a renewed commitment to building a competitive team. The team's willingness to part ways with a star player like Hill underscores the challenges of managing a salary cap in the modern NFL and the importance of long-term planning.