Before the 2025 season kicked off, the talk of Miami Dolphins wideout Tyreek Hill lining back up with the Kansas City Chiefs had gained quite some momentum. But as far as the Chiefs were concerned, that was never in the cards.

As The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reports, “While fantasy managers and fans dreams up reunion scenarios, I’m told Hill was never considered a real option in Kansas City, even as the Chiefs stumbled out of the gate.” Instead, the Chiefs are fully invested in their star receiver Rashee Rice. A source close to the team reportedly informed Russini that Rice is “better than any trade we could make. … People don’t realize how good he is.”

Kansas City’s front office remains calm despite their offensive struggles. Xavier Worthy’s return to action and Rice’s upcoming availability have put the team’s focus on building from within. The Chiefs did lose the first two games of the season, but they have gained their momentum and carved out a winning streak heading into Week 5. Their faith lies in developing their existing roster rather than chasing nostalgia with Hill.

Hill’s gruesome knee injury, including a torn ACL and ligaments, has ended his 2025 season. All the offseason chatter of moving Hill has now dimmed further. At 31, and with his number declining, off-field concerns and contract details already complicated Hill’s trade value. League insiders say the Dolphins might now only get a late-round pick if they trade him.

Hill’s agent aims for a Week 1 return in 2026, but NFL doctors note that given the nerve damage Hill faces with his injury, his return could take longer. All the while, Hill’s agent maintains that he wants to stay in Miami. For that, they are even willing to talk numbers to settle on a win-win for both parties. “There’s no reason why we can’t. We will roll up our sleeves on our end. And if the Dolphins are willing, we will find a number that works for everyone.” And aside from an uncertain 2026 future, the injury has also hit Hill financially, with $1.8 million in per-game bonuses gone for the year.

While the Chiefs focus on their young core, the NFL world shares concerns about Tyreek Hill. His injury and the following long road to recovery are deeply personal for many, including his former teammate, Chiefs’ franchise quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Patrick Mahomes reaches out to Tyreek Hill

After Tyreek Hill got sidelined for the season with his horrible injury, Mahomes spoke with him. As the quarterback noted recently, “I talked to him a little bit… more than anything sending prayers his way… I know how hard he works. I’m excited to watch his comeback now. Obviously, praying for him and his family.” The two share a bond forged in Kansas City, where they made history. Hill’s injury has put that relationship in sharp relief, showing the human side beyond the game.

Meanwhile, Rashee Rice’s impending return is huge for the Chiefs. Suspended for six games due to a 2024 car accident, Rice is considered the team’s most reliable route runner and biggest receiving threat. Head coach Andy Reid and those around the team remain bullish on Rice’s impact. The Chiefs are betting on youth. Their approach is steady, not reactionary. This isn’t knee-jerk trading; it’s a patient build around Mahomes’ weapons in the present and future.

With Hill absent, Miami has pivoted towards veteran receiver Jaylen Wadden and added more depth by signing Cedrick Wilson Jr. to their squad. Kansas City, meanwhile, remains confident in its stars. They believe Rashee Rice’s return will revitalize the offense, no matter the early season stumbles. As the Chiefs face off against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 5, they know they will soon be back at their full offensive strength.

For Hill, the journey just got tougher, and the door back to Kansas City may never have been open. But Mahomes’ outreach and Hill’s own grit keep the hope alive. Hill may not come back to KC, but his NFL journey beyond the 2025 season will be one to watch.