There was uncertainty about whether Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill would play against the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night. Not only did he suit up, but he also ended the longest touchdown drought of his career in the Dolphins’ 23-15 win.
Hill, known for his big-play ability, scored on a 1-yard pass from Tua Tagovailoa in the third quarter, pushing the Dolphins (3-6) to a 17-6 lead. This was Hill’s first touchdown in seven games, his last one coming in the season opener against Jacksonville, where he recorded a season-high 130 yards on seven catches.
“I didn’t know that, which is crazy,” Hill said. “It’s a blessing to be back in the end zone. I’m grateful to be part of this team, and I’m all about helping us win. Scoring isn’t the main thing for me—it’s winning and being able to do something special with these guys.”
Hill’s status was questionable due to a torn ligament in his wrist, causing him to miss two practices last week. Tagovailoa shared that the team didn’t confirm Hill’s availability until Sunday night.
Receiver Odell Beckham Jr. was confident Hill would play. “I didn’t think he’d sit out, injury or not,” Beckham said. “It’s Monday Night Football, and we’re in a must-win situation. For him to play and score just shows how much he means to this team.”
Hill ended the game with three catches for 16 yards, his second-lowest receiving total this season, along with 11 rushing yards on two carries. Despite the touchdown, his season stats reflect a decline, marking his least productive year since his rookie season with Kansas City in 2016. He now has 37 receptions for 462 yards and two touchdowns, far below his previous seasons with over 1,700 yards.
Before joining Miami, Hill played six seasons with the Chiefs. At 30, he has recorded at least 1,200 yards in each of the last four seasons, leading the NFL in 2023 with 1,799 yards and 13 touchdowns. In August, he signed a restructured deal with additional guaranteed money.
This season’s drop in production is partly due to Tagovailoa’s extended absence with a concussion. However, Tagovailoa noted that neither Hill nor Jaylen Waddle has pushed for more targets since his return in Week 8, even though the Rams’ defense played conservatively.
“Coming into this game, they could have easily said, ‘Just keep throwing, even if it’s a two-high coverage,’” Tagovailoa said. “But those guys are all in. They’re just here to win.”
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