The Miami Dolphins added fuel to the already bright fire by trading for two-time alleged domestic abusers, six-time Pro Bowler, and three-time All-Pro receiver Tyreek Hill. The Dolphins gave Hill a 4-year extension worth $120 million with $72.2 million guaranteed, making him the highest paid receiver of all-time based on average annual value. The departure of Hill from Kansas City was rumored two weeks ago. When it became apparent that the Chiefs were not going to be able to make Hill the highest-paid receiver in the league, extension talks stopped and a trade was inevitable. This is something I want to point out. Two of the three highest-paid quarterbacks have been traded away from teams with two of the highest-paid receivers. I can't put it into words yet. This trade has a number of implications. Hill is a deep threat and Tagovailoa is known for his low intended air yards, so it may not seem like a good fit for Hill to Miami. Smith was known for his inability to push the ball downfield, but Hill's presence allowed him to take shots downfield more often. I have talked before about how Tagovailoa has decent metrics when throwing deep, but he doesn't do it often. Tua will be more likely to take more shots with Hill in the fold. Even if that isn't the case, Hill's presence will stretch opposing defenses, giving guys like Jaylen Waddle and Mike Gesicki more room to work. You should never pay a player $30 million a year to be a diversion.
The 49ers seem to be modeled after by the team. Kyle loves being able to run after a catch. The second-fastest player in the league at halfback is also a player from Miami. The Dolphins have made improvements to their offensive line with the acquisition of Terron Armstead, and although they don't have any picks in the first two rounds of the 2022, they could still look to improve their line in the draft. There are many good O-line prospects this year. One could slip to the third round.
Tagovailoa has no excuses next season. He has been given a great receiving corps, an elite left tackle, a trio of running backs, and an offensive-minded offense. Tua needs to leave if the Dolphins don't make the playoffs. He isn't the answer. I'm not saying they need to win the division, but they need to make the playoffs. Josh Allen is a huge step up from Tagovailoa and this roster is more talented than New England.
The stage is set for Tagovailoa, and the Dolphins need to see something. There is a reason they signed Teddy Bridgewater. If Tua can't take the next step toward becoming a franchise quarterback, he's there. The leash is likely to be tight.
The loss of Tyreek Hill is a blow to Kansas City. They have already lost their second-leading wide receiver from a year ago, and now their top wideout as well. It is never a good idea to doubt Patrick Mahomes. Smith-Schuster, Hardman, and Gordon are not terrible trio of receivers. Kelce will be a threat to opposing defenses. The team is in good shape. I wouldn't be surprised to hear the names of Chris and George at pick 29 or 30 in the draft.
I'm not ready to give the Broncos or Bolts the title of theAFC West just yet, but the Chiefs are clearly not the favorites that they were last year. The biggest strength of the Chiefs was their ability to score, and Hill was a big part of that. It's a big loss, but the Chiefs can't overcome it.