NFL star Tyreek Hill has spoken out following a tense encounter with Miami-Dade police that resulted in his detainment just hours before the Miami Dolphins’ season opener on Sunday, September 8. The wide receiver was handcuffed after an alleged traffic violation, though he remains uncertain about the reason for the incident.
Speaking to USA Today after the game, Hill expressed confusion over the situation, stating, “They said I was speeding, reckless driving or whatever.” He added, “If you said I did something, write me a ticket and do whatever you have to do. But don’t be disrespectful.” Hill emphasized how quickly the situation escalated, admitting it caught him off guard. “It happened so fast, it caught me off guard.”
The Miami-Dade Police Department has since confirmed an internal affairs investigation into the incident, and the officer involved in detaining Hill has been placed on administrative duties, pending the outcome of the review. This decision was shared in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter).
When asked about the officer being placed on leave, Hill responded pointedly: “That should tell you everything you need to know.”
Hill, who revealed that he once considered becoming a police officer if football hadn’t worked out, reflected on the broader implications of the incident. “What if I wasn’t Tyreek Hill? Worst case scenario. It’s crazy,” he said. Despite his ordeal, Hill emphasized his respect for law enforcement. “I have a state trooper hat, and I have a lot of respect for cops. Obviously, everybody has bad apples in every situation.”
Looking forward, Hill expressed his desire to use his platform to turn the incident into something positive. “I want to be able to use this platform to figure out a way to flip this and make this a positive on both ends, on my end and Miami-Dade, so we can do something positive for the community.”
Footage of the encounter, captured by several bystanders, shows Hill lying face-down on the ground near his vehicle, surrounded by four officers.
In response to the public scrutiny, Miami-Dade Police Department Director Stephanie V. Daniels released a statement to PEOPLE, saying, “We are aware of the recent detainment of Miami Dolphins player Tyreek Hill by Miami-Dade Police Department. I have requested an immediate review of all details surrounding the incident, and we are also reviewing available body camera footage.”
Despite the pre-game ordeal, Hill showcased his athletic prowess on the field, scoring a touchdown and racking up 130 yards on seven receptions, helping lead the Dolphins to a 20-17 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Further updates regarding the investigation are expected as more details emerge.