Miami Dolphins star wide receiver Tyreek Hill gave an explanation for his surprising reaction to the severe injury that ended his season during Monday night’s game against the New York Jets, as reported by The New York Post.

Former Dolphins offensive tackle Terron Armstead told TMZ Sports on Tuesday that Hill was forced to laugh and smile after suffering the injury to avoid passing out from the pain.

Armstead, who played for Miami from 2022 through 2024 before retiring ahead of the current season, said he spoke directly with Hill just hours after the game.

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“He was laughing through the pain,” Armstead said. “Because it was either that or pass out.”

The injury occurred in the third quarter of the Dolphins’ 27-21 win over the Jets when Hill fell awkwardly on a sideline tackle.

The All-Pro wideout dislocated his left knee and tore multiple ligaments, including his ACL. He was carted off the field clapping and smiling, which sparked confusion among fans watching the broadcast.

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Hill underwent surgery on Tuesday to repair the damage. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, confirmed to ESPN’s Adam Schefter that the procedure was successful, no additional surgeries will be necessary, and Hill is expected to return to the field next season.

Initial concerns that the 30-year-old would be sidelined for all of 2026 were put to rest following the update.

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Hill himself addressed fans in a video message posted on X from his hospital bed.

“Alright, guys. Tyreek Hill here, The Cheetah,” he said. “You guys have been awesome, man. Fins Nation, just the whole entire NFL has been amazing, sending me lots of love, lots of prayers. I’m absolutely honored, man.”

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Despite the seriousness of the injury, both Hill and those close to him expressed optimism about his recovery. Armstead said he expects his former teammate to approach rehabilitation with the same intensity he brings to the field.

“He’s someone that will attack this rehab full throttle, and do his best to be back to the Tyreek Hill that we know,” Armstead said.

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The Dolphins will now move forward without their top receiver as they continue their 2025 season, while Hill begins the recovery process with hopes of returning at full strength in 2026.

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