With the Detroit Lions hosting the Miami Dolphins in Week 2 of the NFL preseason, one of the biggest storylines heading into tonight isn’t about the score; it’s about the absence of one of Miami’s biggest stars: Tyreek Hill.
Will Tyreek Hill Play Versus the Detroit Lions?
The short answer for fans wondering if he’ll play: no. Head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed earlier this week that most of the Dolphins’ starters, including Hill, will sit out Saturday’s game. Hill hasn’t been on the practice field for over a week as he works through an oblique injury, and McDaniel said the decision to hold him out has been more about preventing any serious injury.
🎥 Jaylen Waddle has been Tua Tagovailoa’s favorite target throughout training camp with Tyreek Hill dealing with injuries. 🐧 (@MiamiDolphins) #PhinsUp pic.twitter.com/HxrIUDwkve
— FinsXtra (@FinsXtra) August 14, 2025
That’s a risk Miami can’t afford to take. That’s why they decided to rest most of the starters for this game and potentially the rest of the preseason.
By Hill’s lofty standards, the 2024 season was a letdown. Although his final stats of 81 receptions for 959 yards and six touchdowns are respectable for most receivers, they fall far short of his All-Pro performance. In addition to the Dolphins’ offensive issues, his wrist issue contributed to his decline in play. When facing playoff-caliber teams, Miami’s offense faltered in crucial situations, and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa missed six games, adding to the insult.
Hill hopes to have a strong season this year. His speed and game-changing skills are still exceptional at age 31, but maintaining his health will be essential. If the Dolphins want to make a deeper postseason run after an 8-9 season that saw them miss the playoffs, they need Hill at his best.
Hill Suffering From Oblique Injury, Regular Season Status Unknown
The Dolphins and Lions just wrapped up joint practices earlier this week, giving both teams valuable reps against quality competition. For Miami, those sessions offered a controlled environment to evaluate players without risking their stars in live game situations. It’s also why McDaniel is resting Hill, Tagovailoa, and most of the starting unit tonight.
With Hill out, tonight’s game will showcase Miami’s depth at wide receiver. Jaylen Waddle returned to team drills this week and could be ready for the season opener. Meanwhile, backups and young pass catchers will get extended snaps to make their case for roster spots.
Fans eager to see Hill on the field may be disappointed by his absence in Detroit, but the Dolphins are looking at the big picture. He doesn’t appear to be missing Week 1, but concerns about his preparedness will persist until he resumes full practice. Right now, the goal is to get him healthy because Miami’s offense is among the most potent in the league when Hill fully recovers.
