ESPN Analyst Names 3 Teams Tyreek Hill Should Join After Dolphins Release

Stephen A. Smith believes the former Pro Bowl wide receiver should target the Chiefs, Bills, or Ravens as his next NFL destination.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

After the Miami Dolphins released eight-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Tyreek Hill, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith believes the 32-year-old should target three specific teams as his next NFL destination: the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Baltimore Ravens. Smith cited Hill's history with the Chiefs, the Bills' need for a vertical threat, and the Ravens' potential interest in signing Hill at a discount as reasons why those teams make the most sense.

Why it matters

Hill's release from the Dolphins opens up a high-profile free agency opportunity for the veteran wide receiver. As one of the most dynamic playmakers in the NFL, his next landing spot will be closely watched, as it could significantly impact the competitive balance of his new team's offense.

The details

After 54 games, 340 catches, 4,733 yards, and 27 touchdowns with the Dolphins, Hill was released by the team. Smith believes Hill should target a return to the Chiefs, where he played from 2016-2021 and won a Super Bowl, or sign with the Bills or Ravens, who both have needs at the wide receiver position that Hill could potentially fill.

  • Tyreek Hill was released by the Miami Dolphins on February 16, 2026.
  • Hill turns 32 years old on March 1, 2026.

The players

Tyreek Hill

An eight-time Pro Bowl wide receiver who was recently released by the Miami Dolphins after four seasons with the team.

Stephen A. Smith

A prominent ESPN analyst who provided his analysis on where Tyreek Hill should sign as a free agent.

Patrick Mahomes

The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, who previously played with Tyreek Hill from 2016-2021.

Andy Reid

The head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, who could potentially bring Tyreek Hill back to the team.

Josh Allen

The star quarterback of the Buffalo Bills, who could benefit from adding a vertical threat like Tyreek Hill to his offense.

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What they’re saying

“It should be Kansas City, Buffalo, or Baltimore.”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Analyst (First Take)

“He should be targeting going back to Kansas City. He should want to go back and play with Patrick Mahomes because he is desperately needed. He should want to go back. Dammit, he should have never left.”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Analyst (First Take)

What’s next

The NFL free agency period will begin in the coming weeks, at which point Tyreek Hill will be able to sign with a new team. The Chiefs, Bills, and Ravens are all expected to be potential suitors for the veteran wide receiver.

The takeaway

Tyreek Hill's release from the Dolphins has opened up a high-profile free agency opportunity for the dynamic wide receiver. While he has a history with the Chiefs, the Bills and Ravens also present intriguing options where Hill could make a significant impact on their respective offenses.