Hill, who turns 32 on March 1 and is recovering from a dislocated knee and torn ACL, will become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his NFL career. The move, which also included the release of receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and offensive lineman James Daniels, is expected to save the Dolphins approximately $22.8 million against the salary cap.
The timing signals a clear break from the last era of Miami football, led by head coach Mike McDaniel, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and Hill, now signaling a shift under new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley.
Sources described Hill’s release as part of a broader strategy to retool the roster ahead of the 2026 offseason, with teams typically balancing cap relief against potential on-field impact.
The post indicates Hill’s departure marks a notable turning point for the Dolphins, who had been central figures in the AFC landscape during Hill’s tenure. As Hill becomes a free agent, teams across the league will gauge his health, fit, and contract expectations in the run-up to free agency.