As the 2021 season continues to progress, so does Tyreek Hill, it seems. His role has done nothing but grow in a steady fashion, starting as a punt/kick return specialist and now becoming to #1 target for Patrick Mahomes. After week 1, he is leading the league in receiving yards.
As the season continues, I don’t think Tyreek Hill will slow down, similar to his play on the field. Between him and Travis Kelce, the Chiefs have quite possibly the most dynamic receiving duo in the NFL, with the best QB in the league throwing them the ball.
Starting as a 5thround draft pick, Hill has become the primary target on one of the most dangerous offenses in the NFL. That is quite an ascent. Now Hill clearly had the talent to go much higher in the draft, but his off-the-field issues made other teams steer clear of the speedster.
Andy Reid has always believed in second chances, however, and felt like he could keep the young Tyreek’s nose clean. He has done just that, and it has paid off immensely for the Chiefs organization. Hill has put in the work, and it has shown on the field in his growth as a player. He has seen his role grow from a return specialist, to a deep threat, to now finally the #1 wide receiver and chain mover on the high-flying Chiefs offense.
With the vacancy left by Sammy Watkins as the WR #2 spot and primary 3rddown target, Tyreek Hill’s role will need to be large this season. If the Chiefs hope to have another successful season that ultimately culminates in a deep postseason run, Tyreek will need to be a big factor in the offense, especially on 3rddown. On Sunday, Tyreek had 4 receptions for 53 yards on 3rddown alone, showing that he was the primary target when the Chiefs’ offense had their backs against the wall.
Simply because he seems to be stepping into the primary target on 3rddown doesn’t mean he isn’t an explosive deep threat, as he showed against the Browns on his 75-yard TD reception. Tyreek has grown in his blocking and his route running abilities. He isn’t afraid to do whatever it takes for the team to get a W.
“I’m all about winning, I’m all about team… I don’t care if it’s route running, if it’s blocking, I want to be there to make the play for my team,” Hill said in the post-game press conference with Mitch Holthus.
Tyreek finished the game with 11 receptions for 197 yards. His first question after hearing how many yards he put up against the Browns was “how many targets did I have?” That is the secret to what makes him great. He is never satisfied with a game that literally was the best in the league in week 1, a game that for most receivers would be a career day.
This is why Tyreek has seen his role continue to grow over the years for the Chiefs. He is always looking for areas he can improve in, how he can take his game to the next level. That work ethic has been apparent as he continues to grow as a receiver for the Chiefs, and his role continues to grow right along with his game. If the Chiefs want to have another successful season, he will need to be a primary target not only on 3rd down, but on every passing play.
