It wasn’t just Tyreek Hill who found himself in handcuffs before the Miami Dolphins’ season-opening victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Defensive lineman Calais Campbell was also briefly detained by Miami-Dade police in an incident that unfolded hours before the Dolphins took the field.
Speaking to NFL Network reporter Cameron Wolfe after Miami’s 20-17 win, Campbell revealed that he too was involved in the situation that led to Hill being cited for reckless driving. Campbell, who tried to assist Hill during the traffic stop, shared his frustration with how events unfolded.
“For him to put handcuffs on me, I felt some type of way,” Campbell said. “But that just goes to show how resilient we are. We didn’t let that stop us.”
“For him to put handcuffs on me, I felt some type of way. But that just goes to show how resilient we are. We didn't let that stop us.”
1-on-1 with Dolphins DL Calais Campbell on @nflnetwork @NFLGameDay: pic.twitter.com/Q9aUOAoM9E
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) September 8, 2024
The incident, which occurred near Hard Rock Stadium, involved police detaining Hill in connection with a traffic violation. Hill was cited for reckless driving, but the encounter is now under investigation. Miami-Dade Police Department Director Stephanie V. Daniels issued a statement confirming that the department is conducting a full review of the situation, including body camera footage.
“We are aware of the recent detainment of Miami Dolphins player Tyreek Hill by Miami-Dade Police Department officers,” Daniels said. “I have requested an immediate review of all details surrounding the incident, and we are also reviewing available body camera footage. We will provide updates as further information becomes available.”
Despite the ordeal, both Hill and Campbell were able to take the field, with Hill playing a pivotal role in the Dolphins’ victory. Hill caught an 80-yard touchdown in the third quarter, adding to the drama by mimicking a handcuff gesture in his celebration.
BREAKING Tyreek Hill and Calais Campbell are handcuffed outside of the stadium pic.twitter.com/CS7jIibdLM
— Anthony Jags (@SadJagsFan69) September 8, 2024
Campbell, who joined the Dolphins in June, is a veteran leader on the defensive line. The 38-year-old has enjoyed a storied NFL career, having been selected to six Pro Bowls and named the 2017 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. In 2019, he was honored as the league’s Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, recognizing his contributions on and off the field.
Photos of both Campbell and Hill being detained surfaced online after the game, further drawing attention to the pre-game drama. As the investigation into the incident continues, the Dolphins will look to move forward and build on their season-opening win.
