The Miami Dolphins‘ star wide receiver, Tyreek Hill, suffered a devastating knee injury during the third quarter of Monday’s game against the New York Jets. At that point, the Dolphins were leading 21–17, and Hill had just made a 28-yard reception, showcasing his trademark speed and ability to stretch the field.
On the very next play, Hill planted his foot awkwardly while attempting to change direction, and his knee gave out beneath him. He collapsed in visible pain, with medical personnel rushing to his aid. Fans and teammates alike watched in disbelief as Hill was carted off the field, the implications of his injury rippling immediately through the Dolphins organization.
The severity of Hill’s injury became painfully clear in the hours following the incident. Senior NFL insider Jonathan Jones reported that the injury not only ends Hill’s 2025 season but also puts his availability for Week 1 of the 2026 season in serious doubt.
31-Year-Old Tyreek Hill’s 2027 Season Reportedly in Trouble
Jonathan Jones reported on X, “The severity of Tyreek Hill’s knee injury not only takes him out of the rest of 2025 but also puts into question whether he will be ready to play Week 1 next season, source says.” He called it “among the more devastating knee injuries you see in football.” A couple of minutes earlier, ESPN’s Adam Schefter had also confirmed.
Schefter said that Hill suffered a dislocated knee and tore multiple ligaments, including his ACL. Hill underwent surgery immediately and remains hospitalized. Minutes after Jones’ report, the Miami Dolphins confirmed on their official X handle that Hill is out for the rest of the season. But it was not clear that the impact would be stretched to the 2027 NFL season.
Before the injury, Hill had already made a significant impact in the 2025 season. In just four games, he recorded 21 receptions for 265 yards and one touchdown, averaging 12.6 yards per reception. PFF metrics highlighted his elite separation on routes, deep-threat explosiveness, and ability to create yards after the catch, even in a shortened campaign. Hill’s presence forced defenses to account for him on nearly every play. His absence now leaves the Dolphins without their primary offensive weapon, creating a void that is impossible to replace in a single player.
Who Will Step Up in Cheetah’s Absence?
Replacing Hill is easier said than done, and the Dolphins’ current receiving corps underscores just how dire the situation has become. Though they have five WR options, Jaylen Waddle and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine are expected to take on larger roles. The other three receivers are Malik Washington, Dee Eskridge, and Tahj Washington. But neither has the game-breaking speed or consistent production to replicate Hill’s impact. Beyond them, the roster relies on rookies and lesser-known receivers who have yet to prove themselves against NFL defenses.
This lack of proven depth puts immense pressure on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who will now face defenses that no longer fear the deep ball threat Hill provided. The Dolphins’ offense, which had leaned heavily on Hill’s ability to stretch the field and command attention, will have to pivot quickly, likely emphasizing shorter routes and increased reliance on the running game. Even with these adjustments, the loss of their star wideout highlights just how fragile the Dolphins’ offensive structure is. Compounding the challenge is the Dolphins’ current offensive performance. Through the first four games of the 2025 season, the team has struggled to establish a consistent offensive rhythm. They rank 29th in the NFL in total offense, averaging just 269 yards per game.
The Dolphins’ passing game has been inconsistent, and the running game has failed to provide the necessary balance. These offensive struggles have been further exacerbated by a defense that has allowed an average of 3.7 touchdowns per game, ranking 26th in the league. The combination of an underperforming offense and a leaky defense has placed the Dolphins in a precarious position, and the loss of Hill only deepens the challenges ahead.
Darkness of Uncertainty Ahead of Hill
Hill’s long-term outlook is uncertain. Knee dislocations combined with multiple ligament tears are among the most challenging injuries for any NFL player, which often requires over a year of rehabilitation. The prospect of returning by Week 1 of next season remains unclear, and his recovery will need to be carefully monitored.
Tyreek Hill’s elite athleticism and work ethic give hope for a return to form, but the path will be grueling. For now, the Dolphins and their fans are left to navigate the immediate fallout of his absence, hoping that the team can adapt offensively while supporting one of the league’s most dynamic players through a long and uncertain recovery.