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Tyreek Hill showed up at Super Bowl week walking on his own. No brace. No visible limitation.
The Miami Dolphins wide receiver confirmed he is now in his second week walking unassisted as he recovers from the devastating knee injury that ended his 2025 season on September 29 against the New York Jets.
Speaking to People at the EA Sports Madden Bowl, Hill sounded optimistic about his progress.
For a player whose game depends on burst and elite change of direction, that milestone carries weight.
"I'm feeling good. I'm walking with no brace on right now. I'm in my second week of walking with no brace, so I'm proud of that...
From Monday Night shock to measured recovery
Hill's injury occurred during Monday Night Football after catching a pass from Tua Tagovailoa. The diagnosis was severe: a dislocated knee and torn ACL. Surgery followed shortly after, and doctors reported a successful procedure.
According to medical guidance from the Cleveland Clinic, ACL recovery typically requires nine to 12 months before a return to full athletic performance. Hill has publicly stated he is targeting the start of the 2026 season.
Walking without a brace does not mean full clearance, but it marks a significant checkpoint in the rehabilitation process.
Before the injury, Hill remained central to Miami's identity. In 2023, he led the NFL with 1,799 receiving yards, earning First-Team All-Pro honors, according to official league statistics. His speed dictated defensive coverages every week. Without him in 2025, Miami's vertical threat diminished noticeably.
A March 13 financial decision looms
Hill's recovery update comes at a pivotal moment for the franchise.
NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero reported that the Dolphins are likely to release Hill before March 13, when a $16 million guarantee becomes active. The decision is financial, not medical.
Miami is navigating significant salary cap considerations as it restructures its roster heading into the new league year. Pelissero also noted broader contract management involving quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Because Hill is recovering from a serious ACL injury, a trade is considered unlikely. A release would create cap flexibility but would also remove one of the AFC's most dynamic weapons.
Around the league, analysts see this as one of the most impactful offseason decisions in the conference.
Tyreek Hill's life beyond the field during rehab
While rehabbing, Hill has explored personal interests outside football. He recently learned how to DJ and performed publicly at an Adidas event during Super Bowl week. He has also mentioned possible ventures in construction, education, and automotive businesses.
He clarified these interests are creative outlets, not exit plans.
"I feel like I'm a guy who can do a lot. I got a lot of passions for a lot of things...
The Dolphins at a crossroads
In recent seasons, the Miami Dolphins built their offense around speed and explosive playmaking. Hill was the centerpiece of that evolution.
Now the franchise faces a layered decision: Keep a proven All-Pro receiver coming off ACL surgery, or pivot financially and reshape the roster.
Hill continues to progress physically. Miami must soon determine whether that progress aligns with its long-term plans.
Sources: Statements provided to People magazine; reporting from NFL Network's Tom Pelissero; official NFL statistics; ACL recovery data from the Cleveland Clinic.