Tyreek Hill, currently recovering from a serious left knee injury sustained during the Miami Dolphins’ 27-21 victory over the New York Jets in Week 4, has surprised many with his rapid rehabilitation. Former Miami teammate Jaylen Waddle disclosed that Hill was already performing squats just two months after the injury, signaling a potentially faster-than-expected recovery during this critical phase of his Tyreek Hill injury rehab.
Jaylen Waddle Describes Hill’s Intense Work Ethic and Determination
During an appearance on The Set Show alongside Terron Armstead, Waddle expressed admiration for Hill’s driven mindset and resilience. The wide receiver credited Hill’s exceptional work ethic for the unusually quick progress, highlighting the seriousness with which Hill is addressing his rehab despite the injury’s severity.
He was such a dog on the field, and to see him go down like that is always hard,
said Waddle.
Two months out of his injury, he’s squatting, and I said, ‘This boy different.’ That boy different. He’s gonna come back CRAZY… You know, Cheetah — he feels like people doubting him now.
?Jaylen Waddle, Wide Receiver
Uncertain Return Timeline Despite Encouraging Signs
Though Hill’s agility in conducting intense workouts months ahead of expectations is noteworthy, his actual return to NFL action remains uncertain. The eight-time Pro Bowler aims to take part in the 2026-27 NFL season, but no firm timetable has been set. Squatting at this stage stands out as a rare and encouraging sign amid a typically cautious recovery approach for significant knee injuries.
Now a free agent at 31 years old, Hill has experienced challenges over the past two years with the Dolphins, not reaching 1,000 receiving yards since 2023. Teams considering signing him during free agency will carefully evaluate his physical health before committing. His decade-long NFL career boasts impressive numbers, including 819 receptions, 11,363 yards, and 83 touchdowns.
What’s Next for Tyreek Hill and the NFL Offseason Ahead
With the NFL’s free agency negotiation window opening on March 9, all eyes will be on Hill’s recovery progress as franchises weigh potential contracts. The offseason will be crucial for Hill to fully rehab his left knee and prepare for a possible comeback. His aggressive rehab efforts, as revealed by Waddle and observed firsthand, suggest Hill is motivated to defy expectations and return to form when the upcoming season begins.
#Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle says Tyreek Hill was squatting two months after his gruesome injury.
“That boy different. He’s gonna come back CRAZY. You know Cheetah — he feels like people doubting him now."
(🎥 @thesetshow_ with @T_Armstead72) pic.twitter.com/ME3wvjzebQ
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 19, 2026
