Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Miami Dolphins have released wide receiver Tyreek Hill after he suffered a dislocated knee injury in Week 4 of the 2026 season. Hill took to Instagram to thank the Dolphins organization, his teammates, and the fans, while also vowing to return to the field despite concerns from a former team doctor that the injury could be career-threatening. Hill’s agent remains optimistic about his client’s recovery and potential return, with speculation that he could reunite with the Kansas City Chiefs or join the Los Angeles Chargers and offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.

Why it matters

Tyreek Hill was one of the most productive receivers in the NFL prior to his injury, and his release from the Dolphins raises questions about his future in the league. The severity of his injury and his ability to recover will be closely watched, as he was a key part of the Dolphins’ offense and his potential return could have significant implications for his next destination and the teams he plays for.

The details

Hill last played for the Dolphins in Week 4 of the 2026 season, where he suffered a dislocated knee injury that ended his season. Former Chargers team doctor David Chao questioned whether Hill could return, stating that the injury “falls into the career-threatening category” and that if he were to return, it would likely be toward the end of the 2026 season. However, Hill’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, disagreed with Chao’s assessment and said the “realistic goal is the start of the season.” The Dolphins released Hill with a “failed physical” designation, and his medical status will likely determine the contract he receives in free agency.

In Week 4 of the 2026 season, Hill suffered a dislocated knee injury that ended his season.Following the injury, former Chargers team doctor David Chao questioned whether Hill could return, stating it would likely be toward the end of the 2026 season.On February 18, 2026, the Miami Dolphins announced the release of Tyreek Hill.
The players

Tyreek Hill

A star wide receiver who was released by the Miami Dolphins after suffering a dislocated knee injury in the 2026 season.

David Chao

A former team doctor for the San Diego Chargers who questioned whether Hill could return from his injury, stating it falls into the “career-threatening category”.

Drew Rosenhaus

Tyreek Hill’s agent, who disagreed with Chao’s assessment and said the “realistic goal is the start of the season” for Hill’s return.

Mike McDaniel

The offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, who previously worked with Hill and could be a potential landing spot for the receiver in free agency.

Justin Jefferson

A wide receiver who had more receiving yards than Hill since 2022, prior to Hill’s injury.

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What they’re saying

“This type of injury, given his style of play, falls into the career-threatening category.”

— David Chao, Former Chargers team doctor (X)

“The realistic goal is the start of the season.”

— Drew Rosenhaus, Tyreek Hill’s agent (N/A)

“Hill might just be the unique player who can recover from this and continue to make plays. A potential return to Kansas City has to be mentioned. The Chiefs’ offense hasn’t quite been the same since the franchise traded Hill in 2022.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Dolphins’ release of Tyreek Hill with a “failed physical” designation means his medical status will be a key factor in determining his next contract and potential landing spot in free agency. The realistic timeline for his return, as well as interest from teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers, will be closely monitored in the coming months.

The takeaway

Tyreek Hill’s release from the Miami Dolphins highlights the uncertainty surrounding his future in the NFL due to a potentially career-threatening knee injury. While his agent remains optimistic about his recovery, the severity of the injury and his ability to return to his previous level of production will be crucial factors in determining his next steps and whether he can recapture the success he had earlier in his career.