As the Miami Dolphins trudged off the field after a season-ending 32-20 loss to the New York Jets in Week 18, speculation about Tyreek Hill’s future immediately ignited. Hill, one of the NFL’s most electrifying receivers, wasted no time stoking the flames of trade rumors during post-game interviews.
“I’m out. It was great playing here, but at the end of the day, I gotta do what’s best for my career, because I’m too much of a competitor to be just out there,” Hill candidly stated.
Despite having $54.6 million left on his contract over the next two seasons, it’s expected that several teams will explore the possibility of acquiring the six-time All-Pro wide receiver. Bleacher Report’s Zach Bachar suggests the Denver Broncos could be among those suitors.
“After clinching a playoff spot for the first time since the 2015 season, the Denver Broncos could rise to contending status by acquiring Hill,” Bachar wrote. “If Denver wants to compete with the Chiefs for the No. 1 spot in the division moving forward, acquiring a speedy option such as Hill to take the top off opposing defenses would help.”
Hill’s Decade of Dominance
Since being drafted in the fifth round by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2016, Hill has solidified himself as one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers. Over his career, he’s made eight consecutive Pro Bowl appearances and earned six All-Pro selections. His peak performance came in 2023 when he led the NFL with 1,799 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, narrowly missing the receiving triple crown.
Hill has also been a proven winner, playing a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run after the 2019 season. However, the 2024 campaign marked a low point for Hill. Not only did his streak of four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons end, but his production also dipped significantly. Hill finished the year with 81 receptions for 959 yards and six touchdowns—his lowest totals since entering the league. It was also the first season he played for a team that missed the postseason.
Could the Broncos Afford Hill?
If Denver decides to pursue Hill, the financial implications would be significant. Hill’s 2025 salary of $28.6 million would consume a substantial portion of the Broncos’ estimated $60 million in cap space. However, his 2026 salary of $36 million could be more manageable, as Denver’s cap space is projected to jump to $137.2 million.
The bigger challenge would be the trade cost. In 2022, the Dolphins traded their first, second, and fourth-round picks in addition to two later-round selections to acquire Hill from the Chiefs. A similar haul could be required for Denver to secure Hill, especially given his star power and impact on the field.
Despite his underwhelming 2024 season, Hill’s track record and ability to change the dynamic of an offense make him a coveted asset. If the Broncos are serious about elevating their status in the AFC West, adding Hill to their roster could be a game-changing move.
