The Miami Dolphins concluded the 2024 NFL season with a losing record, marking the first time in three years under head coach Mike McDaniel that the team missed the playoffs. This disappointing outcome has sparked uncertainty about wide receiver Tyreek Hill's future with the franchise. Hill ended the season with his lowest performance since joining the Dolphins, compiling 959 yards and six touchdowns from 81 receptions. Notably, Hill remained sidelined during the Dolphins' final two possessions in their loss to the New York Jets, a decision not driven by injury according to McDaniel.
Hill's absence from the field coincided with a crucial moment in the game. Trailing by two scores, the Dolphins managed to score a touchdown, narrowing their deficit to five points. Despite this effort, they could not secure a playoff spot, resulting in their elimination after the defeat to the Jets. Following this setback, Hill voiced his disappointment and hinted at a potential departure from Miami, citing personal and professional considerations.
Hill's tenure with the Dolphins began with a significant investment. Before the 2024 season, the team restructured his contract, increasing the guaranteed money on his five-year deal to $106.5 million. With two years remaining on his 2022 extension, Hill's future remains uncertain despite a positive working relationship with coach McDaniel, which is considered an asset to the team.
"It would be unfair for me to match emotion with emotion," – Mike McDaniel
McDaniel expressed his commitment to focusing on the players during challenging times such as these.
"And I think at that point in time, my focus was on the players and I didn't take the time to go try to figure out more into that, just if there was guys on the field that were competing. We were trying to win a game." – Mike McDaniel
The coach also stated his expectations for continuity within the team's leadership. He recently signed a three-year extension and anticipates returning alongside general manager Chris Grier for the 2025 season.
"as we now look towards 2025, our football operation will continue to be led by Chris Grier and Mike McDaniel with my full support. Their positive working relationship is an asset to the Dolphins, and I believe in the value of stability." – Stephen Ross
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross echoed these sentiments in a statement posted on X, reinforcing his confidence in McDaniel and Grier's leadership.
For Tyreek Hill, missing the playoffs for the first time in his career proved a frustrating experience.
"I don't even know, bruh. This is my first time I haven't been in the playoffs," – Tyreek Hill
In light of this, Hill has expressed a need to evaluate his future prospects, whether they remain with the Dolphins or elsewhere.
"For me, I just have to do what's best for me and my family — if that's here or wherever the case may be." – Tyreek Hill
He further hinted at exploring new opportunities beyond Miami.
"I'm about to open up that door for myself… I'm out, bruh. It was great playing here but at the end of the day, I have to do what's best for my career." – Tyreek Hill
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