Mike McDaniel’s Offense Spurs Potential Tyreek Hill Departure

The Miami Dolphins faced a significant blow when Tyreek Hill was sidelined due to injury earlier in the season. However, as the team adapts, questions are arising about Hill’s future with the franchise.

Impact of Tyreek Hill’s Injury

Hill, who has been out since Week 4, suffered a severe injury that will require a lengthy recovery. His availability for the 2026 season is uncertain, leading to speculation about his future with the Dolphins.

Contract Considerations

• If the Dolphins release Hill after June 1, they would save $36 million in cap space.
• However, releasing him would result in $15.8 million in dead money for the team.

Adapting Without Hill

Coach Mike McDaniel’s offensive strategy has shifted significantly since Hill’s absence. Initially praised for his offensive genius, McDaniel’s approach was questioned as the team struggled without their star receiver.

Rushing Game Revival

Prior to Hill’s injury, the Dolphins only gained 292 rushing yards through the first four weeks. However, following Hill’s departure, Miami’s ground game experienced a resurgence:

• In the three games following Hill’s injury, Miami rushed for 255 yards.
• The team achieved over 100 rushing yards in four games since Hill’s injury, missing the fifth by just one yard.

Offensive Line Adjustments

The introduction of a “Jumbo Package,” which adds a sixth offensive lineman, has contributed to this uplift in performance. McDaniel has returned to his roots, emphasizing a powerful running approach that he previously set aside while Hill was part of the offense.

Current Offensive Trends

In the first four weeks of the season, Miami recorded 83 rushing attempts. After Hill’s departure, that number increased to 94 in the subsequent four games, despite some low individual performances.

• Against the Ravens: 20 rushing attempts.
• Against the Bills: 32 rushing attempts.
• Against the Commanders: 31 rushing attempts.

Quarterback Dynamics

The shift towards a more balanced rushing attack has alleviated some of the pressure on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Previously, the need to force the ball to Hill affected the passing dynamics. Now, the focus on the running game may influence the decision regarding Hill’s future in Miami.

As the team moves forward, the Dolphins must prioritize running the football for sustained success. The potential release of Tyreek Hill could fundamentally reshape the team’s offensive strategy in the coming seasons.