Tyreek Hill is officially a free agent, putting him in an unfamiliar position for the first time in his career.
So, what’s next for the star wide receiver?
The Miami Dolphins officially waived Hill on Monday, ending a four-season run with the team betting that Hill would be a key cog alongside quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Ultimately, this didn’t work out. The Dolphins failed to win a playoff game during his time at South Florida, continuing a slump dating back to the 2000 season.
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Hill also went down early last season with serious knee injuries, including a dislocated kneecap. Hill’s agent said Monday that his rehab is “progressing well” and he will be ready to play at some point next season, and Hill vowed on social media to return.
But who will play for Hill next season? Yahoo Sports’ “Inside Coverage” podcast discussed several possibilities on Monday night.
“He still has that speed. Even if he’s only 80 percent of his speed, he’s still going to be one of the faster players in the NFL,” Yahoo Sports betting analyst Ben Fox said. “So I think he can be a useful contender, but at what price is also a big question.”
kansas city chiefs
The first landing spot is obvious. The Chiefs are Hill’s easiest matchup, as he began his career in Kansas City and won a Super Bowl ring there. He also appeared to give the nod on social media to the Chiefs’ recent rehiring of Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator.
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But Hill may not be used in the way he’s accustomed to in Kansas City.
“yes [Hill] Would he be willing to accept a smaller role if that’s what he’s doing now? Just say Chief? Well, is he their No.1? [wideout]? No, that’s probably Rasheed Rice, who comes with his own set of baggage,” said Yahoo Sports senior NFL reporter Frank Schwab. “Is he their speed point guard? Well, no, that was probably Xavier Worthy. What role is he willing to accept? How much is he willing to accept? “
Naturally, there are many questions to answer. But Hill will be a solid weapon for the Chiefs, who missed the playoffs for the first time in more than a decade.
buffalo bill
Buffalo seems determined to do whatever it can to help quarterback Josh Allen get over the playoff hump and make it to the Super Bowl. That included dumping a successful head coach in Sean McDermott earlier this offseason in favor of offensive coordinator Joe Brady.
Hill could be an easy addition for a team in need of an extra option. Last year, Khalil Shakir was their leading receiver with 719 receiving yards, with tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox ranking second and third.
“They need that veteran piece,” podcast host Andrew Siciliano said. “They need that deep threat. They need a guy out there — I’m sorry, Brandin Cooks — who can attack the football or just run away from whoever’s closest to him. So he doesn’t need to be out there making contested catches to win a playoff game in Denver.”
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Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers could be a good fit for Hill for a number of reasons. He will be paired with Justin Herbert, who has been statistically the top quarterback in the league for his first six seasons despite the team’s struggles at times. The Chargers also have enough money to pay Hill, as they have the third-most cap space in the league this offseason.
Oh, and Mike McDaniel is now the Chargers’ offensive coordinator after being fired by the Dolphins earlier this offseason. Reuniting with his former head coach on the other side of the country feels like it will make Hill’s recovery from injury that much easier.
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new england patriots
Of course, the Patriots made it to Super Bowl X last season. But something was missing, and it became abundantly clear in the final game, when the Seahawks pulled off a commanding victory in San Francisco.
Hill could easily step into New England and help young quarterback Derek Meyer enter his third season in the league. Pairing Hill with star tight end Stefon Diggs, who had 1,013 receiving yards last season, and tight end Hunter Henry could be just the boost the team needs to get over the hump.
las vegas raiders
Now considering the state the Raiders have been in in recent years, this probably wouldn’t be Hill’s first choice. But there are many reasons why it works.
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The Raiders are once again under new leadership this season with Clint Kubiak as head coach. The team also owns the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft, which they will likely use to select Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. Giving Mendoza a veteran like Hill, plus young running back Ashton Jeanty and tight end Brock Bowles will be huge for him early in his career.
Oh, and the Raiders have money to spend. That’s good for Hill, too.