The Kansas City Chiefs would not have been Super Bowl LIV champions without wide receiver Tyreek Hill.
Yes, quarterback Patrick Mahomes is the straw that stirs the drink, but they would not have caught up with the San Francisco 49ers if Hill did not adjust to the underthrown ball during their signature “Wasp” play.
Plays like those make the wideout from West Alabama a can’t-trade athlete.
However, it seems like Hill’s tenure in Kansas City will be over soon as the Chiefs allowed his camp to seek a trade after contract extension talks stalled.
Hill still has one year left in his three-year deal and will receive $21,885,000 in salaries and bonuses.
The two sides couldn’t agree on a deal, especially after seeing Davante Adams‘ five-year mega-deal pushed through.
That said, the team and its fans should brace for a reality of not having Hill.
Unfortunately, NFL reporter Dov Kleiman paints a grim picture once that scenario happens.
Curious to see how Patrick Mahomes' play is affected long term without Tyreek Hill.
Over a smaller sample size without Hill, Mahomes play stayed high, but over time you'd expect a dip because Hill scares defenses so much which makes it easier on everyone on offense.
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) March 23, 2022
Kleiman said, “Curious to see how Patrick Mahomes’ play is affected long term without Tyreek Hill. Over a smaller sample size without Hill, Mahomes play stayed high, but over time you’d expect a dip because Hill scares defenses so much which makes it easier on everyone on offense.”
Mahomes Might Struggle Without Hill
It’s hard to envision the Chiefs having success without Hill because he is their primary target in the passing game.
All can be forgiven if Kansas City had a punishing backfield.
However, the aerial attack is their strength and Hill is their top weapon.
He was the one Mahomes looked for when he needed a big play against the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals during last season’s playoffs.
Without a Hill that can attract much attention and create separation, Mahomes might find it more difficult to find open targets.
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