Did anyone else catch Tyreek Hill’s meltdown in primetime Monday night, or was that just me? The Miami Dolphins wide receiver was visibly upset on the sidelines, leading some to believe a trade could be brewing. With the Kansas City Chiefs in need of a wide receiver, could a reunion be in the cards? Let’s break down why this trade is unlikely, but not entirely out of the realm of possibility.
Fueling the Trade Speculation Fire
Things got chippy on the Dolphins’ sideline Monday night. Hill was seen yelling at someone behind Head Coach Mike McDaniel. This outburst, coupled with the Chiefs’ current situation, has the rumor mill churning. The Chiefs lost their No. 1 wideout, Rashee Rice, to a season-ending knee injury in Week 4. Hill’s former team is desperate for a receiver, and what better replacement than the guy they traded away not too long ago?
Adding more fuel to the fire is the Dolphins’ uncertain season outlook. With starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s return slated for Week 8, the Dolphins could be staring down a lost season. Trading Hill, while a tough pill to swallow, could be a way to recoup some assets for a rebuild.
The Harsh Reality: A Trade Is Highly Unlikely
Before we get too carried away with the idea of Hill returning to Kansas City, let’s pump the brakes a bit. This trade, while fun to think about, is a long shot for several reasons. First and foremost, Hill’s contract is a major obstacle. The Dolphins gave him more guaranteed money this offseason, making him a pricey asset to acquire. The Chiefs would likely have to absorb a significant portion of his remaining contract, a tough pill to swallow for a team already managing their salary cap.
And then there’s the issue of compensation. The Dolphins gave up a king’s ransom to acquire Hill. Do the Chiefs send a package back to Miami that includes what they received in the initial trade? Unlikely. The Dolphins wouldn’t come close to getting equal value in return. It would be a terrible look for General Manager Chris Grier and the Dolphins. Trading Hill would be a clear signal to the rest of the league that they’re waving the white flag on the season, and potentially their future.
“Trading Tyreek Hill would be a horrible look for Chris Grier and the Dolphins,” ProFootballTalk stated bluntly.
So, What’s the Verdict?
Look, I get it. The NFL is a business, and stranger things have happened. But for now, the rumors surrounding Hill’s return to Kansas City are just that: rumors. Talking heads are going to talk, generate clicks, and stir the pot. As far as Hill is concerned, he isn’t going anywhere, nor should he. The Dolphins need to figure things out and fast, but trading away one of the league’s most electrifying players isn’t the answer.