Dolphins’ Julian Hill Promises to Reduce Penalties After Fan Backlash

Miami Gardens: Last season, if you looked up Julian Hill on social media, you’d find a lot of Dolphins fans venting their frustrations. The tight end faced heavy criticism for racking up penalties, especially during a game in Seattle where he was flagged four times. By the end of the first six games, he had eight penalties, leading the league for a team that already struggled with discipline.

Hill, who joined the Dolphins as an undrafted free agent from Campbell, felt the heat from fans. He understood their passion and how much they care about the team. “They want to win, and when you’re not helping, it stings,” he said. His teammate Jonnu Smith helped him stay focused, reminding him that ups and downs are part of the game.

After a rough start, Hill managed to turn things around. In the last 11 games, he was only penalized once. He credited his improved focus and understanding of the game for this change. “It’s all about growth,” he said, noting that he had to adapt to a bigger role this season.

Hill’s offensive snaps increased significantly, and he started 11 games. He’s been working hard on his run-blocking skills, which the coaches appreciate. Despite the early penalties, he felt supported by his teammates and coaches, which motivated him to keep pushing forward.

As he looks ahead to next season, Hill is focused on improving his hand-eye coordination to become a better pass-catcher. He’s also a key player on special teams, and his contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. With a positive mindset, he’s ready to tackle the challenges of his third season in the NFL.