Dolphins Release Star Receiver Tyreek Hill

Four-season tenure in Miami ends as team clears salary cap space

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

The Miami Dolphins are releasing star wide receiver Tyreek Hill, a move that clears significant salary cap space but ends his four-season tenure with the franchise. Hill, 31, was a dominant force on the field for the Dolphins, leading the NFL in receiving in 2023 and amassing impressive stats, but was also involved in several off-field controversies during his time in Miami.

Why it matters

Hill's release is a significant move for the Dolphins as they look to reshape their roster under new leadership. The team will save over $35 million in cap space, but will also have to absorb a $28.2 million dead cap hit. This decision highlights the team's willingness to move on from even their most productive players in order to create financial flexibility for the future.

The details

According to reports, the Dolphins will release Hill as a post-June 1 designated move, which will allow them to spread out the dead cap hit over two seasons. During his four years in Miami, Hill put up impressive numbers, leading the NFL in receiving in 2023 with 340 catches for 4,733 yards and 27 touchdowns. However, he was also involved in several off-field incidents that drew scrutiny.

  • Hill suffered a gruesome leg injury on Sept. 30, 2025 in a 'Monday Night Football' game against the New York Jets, playing his final snaps with the Dolphins.
  • The Dolphins will release Hill on Feb. 16, 2026.

The players

Tyreek Hill

A 31-year-old star wide receiver who spent the last four seasons with the Miami Dolphins, leading the NFL in receiving in 2023 but also being involved in several off-field controversies.

Jon-Eric Sullivan

The new general manager of the Miami Dolphins.

Jeff Hafley

The new head coach of the Miami Dolphins.

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What they’re saying

“While he was part of many off-field controversies with the Dolphins, Hill's raw statistical production was undoubtedly among the best in the NFL in his four seasons with the Dolphins.”

— Eric J. Wallace, Deputy sports editor, The Palm Beach Post (The Palm Beach Post)

What’s next

The Dolphins will have to navigate the significant dead cap hit from Hill's release as they look to rebuild their roster under the new leadership of GM Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley.

The takeaway

Tyreek Hill's release highlights the Dolphins' willingness to move on from even their most productive players in order to create salary cap flexibility, as the team looks to reshape its roster under new management. This decision comes with both financial and on-field implications for Miami as they chart a new course for the franchise.