NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has made his decision on the Tyreek Hill situation.
As first reported by Chiefs follower Clay Wendler (and later confirmed by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport), the league has decided not to suspend Kansas City’s wide receiver following a thorough investigation into allegations of child abuse.
Rumor: no suspension. announced in an hour. ✌️
— 📽️ Red Tribe Cinema (@ClayWendler) July 19, 2019
In a press release from the NFL distributed to various media outlets, including Fan Source Network, the league said, “Over the past four months, we have conducted a comprehensive investigation of allegations regarding Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Throughout this investigation, the NFL’s primary concern has been the well-being of the child. Our understanding is that the child is safe and that the child’s ongoing care is being directed and monitored by the Johnson County District Court and the Johnson County Department for Children and Families.
“In conducting our investigation, we have taken great care to ensure that we do not interfere with the county’s proceedings or compromise the privacy or welfare of the child in any way. The information developed in the court proceeding is confidential and has not been shared with us, and the court has sealed all law enforcement records. Local law enforcement authorities have publicly advised that the available evidence does not permit them to determine who caused the child’s injuries.
“Similarly, based on the evidence presently available, the NFL cannot conclude that Mr. Hill violated the Personal Conduct Policy. Accordingly, he may attend Kansas City’s training camp and participate in all club activities. He has been and will continue to be subject to conditions set forth by the District Court, Commissioner Goodell, and the Chiefs, which include clinical evaluation and therapeutic intervention.
“If further information becomes available through law enforcement, the pending court proceeding, or other sources, we will promptly consider it and take all appropriate steps at that time.”
As Fan Source’s Nick Athan reported 10 days ago, the league’s decision was expected to come this week. Athan suspected that the NFL’s decision to not suspend Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott would certainly benefit Hill. He also cited Goodell’s negotiations with the NFLPA on a new CBA as another reason the league could decide not to punish Hill.
With Tyreek's Hill fate likely decided this week or next, I'm NOT convinced the NFL won't suspend him. Though with Goodell and the NFLPA deep in talks for an extension on new CBA that muddies the waters and could benefit Hill – especially after NFL didn't suspend Elliott.
— Chiefs Insider (@ChiefsInsider) July 9, 2019
The Hill saga has lasted since mid-March, and after months of investigations, new information, and recordings, Hill is in the clear for now. The speedy wideout can now attend Kansas City’s training camp and participate in all club activities.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the investigation by the Kansas Department for Children and Families is ongoing, but that is not a criminal investigation and rather a process concerning the welfare of the child involved.
The investigation by the Kansas Department For Children and Families remains ongoing, spokesman Mike Deines tells me. But that isn’t a criminal investigation of Tyreek Hill and Crystal Espinal. It’s strictly about the child’s welfare.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 19, 2019
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Prior to the incident that spanned from March until today, Hill had reportedly been discussing a contract negotiation with the Chiefs. Those were put on hold when his future status was in limbo, but can presumably resume now that the league’s investigation has concluded without any punishment being issued to Hill. As James Palmer of NFL Network notes, any new contract will most likely have “some very specific language within it.”
My understanding is it is will most likely be several weeks if not months before contract talks between Tyreek Hill and the Chiefs start back up. He’s in the final year of his rookie contact and this new contract will mostly have some very specific language within it.
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) July 19, 2019
Hill, currently 25, was selected by the Chiefs in the fifth round of the 2016 draft. He has appeared in 47 games (30 starts), only being inactive for one contest (2017) so far in this three-year career. On 325 targets, Hill as made 223 catches for 3,255 and 25 touchdowns. Also used in the running game, Hill has rushed for 477 yards and four touchdowns on 63 carries.
