The public has shown considerable support for Hill, and the release of the police bodycam footage only intensified this backing for many individuals.
Tyreek Hill was detained by police just hours before the Miami Dolphins’ season opener on Sunday.
After being released in time for the game, Hill went on to record the longest touchdown of his career, receiving an 80-yard pass from his quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Despite this feat, it was overshadowed by the events that transpired before the game began. Even though reports varied, the Miami-Dade police union stated on Sept. 9 that Hill was not “immediately cooperative” and had “initiated this unfortunate incident.”
The public response has largely been supportive of Hill, and the release of the police bodycam footage has further strengthened this support for many.
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) looks on before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium.
© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
The Dolphins released a statement on Monday evening backing Hill. The statement’s language is notably forceful for an NFL team addressing law enforcement actions.
It described the police’s behavior towards Hill and his teammates, Calais Campbell and Jonnu Smith, as aggressive, violent, maddening, and heartbreaking.
“We are proud to have a strong and positive relationship with the Miami-Dade Police Department and other law enforcement agencies and recognize that the vast majority of officers do serve the community with the utmost character and desire to protect all citizens,” the statement read.
“However, as is on full display in the videos released tonight, there are some officers who mistake their responsibility and commitment to serve with misguided power. While we commend MDPD for taking the right and necessary action to quickly release this footage, we also urge them to take equally swift and strong action against the officers who engaged in such despicable behavior.”
The Dolphins will move on to Week 2, hosting the Buffalo Bills on Sept. 12 for Thursday Night Football.
