Miami Dolphins star wide receiver Tyreek Hill underwent season-ending surgery on Tuesday after suffering a severe knee injury during Monday night’s 27-21 win against the New York Jets.
Hill dislocated his left knee and tore multiple ligaments, including his ACL, when his leg bent awkwardly during a tackle near the sideline early in the third quarter. The injury was immediately apparent, with medical staff from both teams rushing to his aid.
Medical personnel placed an air cast on Hill’s leg before he was carted off the field. Despite the obvious severity of the injury, Hill was seen smiling and waving to fans as he left – a moment that his coach and teammates later described as inspiring.
“He was probably in the best spirits of any player that I’ve ever seen [have] such a terrible experience,” Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel said after the game. “He immediately had wide eyes and was talking, ‘I’m good, just make sure the guys get this win.’ He was focused on the team.”
Hill was taken directly to a local hospital for further evaluation, where he remained overnight before Tuesday’s surgery.
Prior to the procedure, Hill posted a video from his hospital bed thanking fans for their support.
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“I’m about to go in for this surgery, keep ya boy in your prayers,” Hill said. “You guys have been awesome, ‘Fins nation, just the whole entire NFL have been amazing, sending me lots of love, lots of prayers. I’m absolutely honored, granted the situation, but I love you guys so much and hope to see you soon.”
Drew Rosenhaus, Hill’s agent, told NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero that all damage was repaired in a single procedure. The goal, according to Rosenhaus, is for Hill to be ready for the start of the 2026 season, though recovery from such complex knee injuries often varies widely.
Knee dislocations like Hill’s are particularly concerning because they can damage not only ligaments but also blood vessels and nerves. The recovery timeline typically extends beyond the standard ACL tear rehabilitation period of 8-12 months, potentially reaching 15-24 months for complete healing and return to pre-injury performance levels.
At 31, Hill’s recovery faces additional challenges. His game relies heavily on elite speed and quick cutting ability – physical attributes that can be difficult to regain fully after multi-ligament knee injuries.
For the Dolphins, the loss of their top offensive weapon creates an immediate void. Hill had recorded 21 catches for 265 yards and a touchdown through four games this season. His absence will likely mean expanded roles for fellow wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and tight end Darren Waller, who caught two touchdown passes in Monday’s game.
“I feel like there will be a lot of guys in the receiver room that will have more opportunities to make plays. I have faith in them, especially from what I’ve seen over camp and the first few weeks,” Waller said. “Football is a game and a business where you got to move forward. There is no replacing [Hill], but I feel like we got guys that can get the job done.”
The win against the Jets was Miami’s first of the season, bringing their record to 1-3. They’ll now need to adapt their offensive approach without the eight-time Pro Bowler, who remains under contract through the 2027 season.
