Tyreek Hill has formally entered free agency, marking an unprecedented career phase for him.
Consequently, what lies ahead for this prominent wide receiver?
Miami’s Dolphins formally severed ties with Hill this Monday, concluding a four-year tenure where the organization heavily invested in him as a vital complement to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. In the end, this strategy proved unsuccessful. The Dolphins did not secure a single postseason victory throughout his presence in South Florida, extending a winless streak from the year 2000.
Hill also sustained a severe knee injury at the start of the last season, specifically a dislocated knee. On Monday, Hill’s representative stated his recovery is “advancing positively” and he anticipates returning to action sometime in the upcoming season, a commitment Hill himself affirmed.
However, which teams are potential suitors for Hill in the next season? The “Inside Coverage” podcast from Yahoo Sports explored a few potential destinations this Monday.
“He still has that speed. Even if he’s 80% of what he was, he’s still going to be one of the faster players in the NFL,” Yahoo Sports senior betting analyst Ben Fawkes said. “So I think he can be a useful piece for a contender, but also at what price is the big question too.”
The Kansas City Chiefs
The initial potential destination is unmistakable. Kansas City presents the most straightforward fit for Hill, given that his professional journey commenced there, where he also secured a Super Bowl championship. He seemingly endorsed the Chiefs’ recent decision to re-engage Eric Bieniemy as their offensive coordinator via social media.
Nevertheless, Hill’s role within Kansas City might diverge from his prior experience.
“Is [Hill] willing to accept a lesser role if that’s what he is right now? Let’s say the Chiefs, right? Well, is he their No. 1 [wideout]? No, that’s probably Rashee Rice, who has his own set of baggage,” Yahoo Sports NFL senior reporter Frank Schwab said. “And is he their speed guy? Well, no, that’s probably Xavier Worthy. What role is he willing to accept? How much money is he willing to accept?”
Many inquiries, quite naturally, remain unresolved concerning this scenario. Still, Hill would represent a formidable asset for the Chiefs, a team that narrowly missed the postseason for the first time in over ten years.
The Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo franchise seems determined to exhaust all avenues in elevating quarterback Josh Allen beyond the playoff barrier towards a Super Bowl triumph. This resolve was evident in their decision to dismiss the accomplished head coach Sean McDermott, opting instead for offensive coordinator Joe Brady at the start of this offseason.
Hill might represent a straightforward acquisition for an organization seeking an additional offensive threat. Last year, Khalil Shakir led their receiving corps with a mere 719 yards, with tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox ranking as the subsequent top pass-catchers.
“They need that veteran piece,” podcast host Andrew Siciliano. “They need that deep threat. They need a guy who down the field — I’m sorry, Brandin Cooks — can attack that football or just run away from the guy closest to him. So he doesn’t have to have a contested catch there to win a playoff game in Denver.”
The Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers present a potentially excellent pairing for Hill due to several factors. He would have the opportunity to collaborate with Justin Herbert, a quarterback who has statistically performed at a high level throughout his initial six league seasons, despite the team’s occasional difficulties. Furthermore, the Chargers possess ample financial resources to compensate Hill, currently holding the third-largest amount of salary cap room in the league for this offseason.
Moreover, Mike McDaniel currently serves as the Chargers’ offensive coordinator, having been dismissed by the Dolphins earlier this offseason. A reunion with his previous head coach, now on the opposite coast, suggests an even smoother transition for Hill as he returns from his injury.
The New England Patriots
Certainly, the Patriots participated in Super Bowl LX during the most recent season. However, a crucial element was absent, a fact made strikingly clear during the championship match where the Seahawks secured a commanding victory in the Bay Area.
Hill could seamlessly integrate into New England, providing support to developing quarterback Drake Maye as he approaches his third professional season. Combining Hill with established star Stefon Diggs, who accumulated 1,013 receiving yards last season, and tight end Hunter Henry, could potentially provide the impetus the squad requires to overcome its obstacles.
The Las Vegas Raiders
Currently, this team might not be Hill’s primary preference, given the Raiders’ performance in recent seasons. Nonetheless, numerous factors suggest this arrangement could be successful.
The Raiders are operating under fresh direction this season, with Klint Kubiak assuming the role of head coach. Additionally, the franchise holds the top selection in the NFL Draft, which is widely expected to be utilized on Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy recipient Fernando Mendoza. Providing Mendoza with an experienced player such as Hill early in his professional tenure, alongside promising running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowers, would be immensely beneficial during his nascent career.
Furthermore, the Raiders possess significant financial flexibility. This aspect would likely appeal to Hill as well.
