It’s important to focus on a specific line from the statement made by Tyreek Hill’s attorney, Julius B. Collins, on Monday. It holds significant meaning. It reveals everything.

“It is already clear that well before this incident, Miami-Dade County should have fired Officer (Danny) Torres,” his statement indicated. “Instead, the County repeatedly returned Officer Torres to the street allowing him to exploit his police power to intimidate people.”

“If officers had not recognized they were dealing with Tyreek Hill – a prominent, admired, educated, and seemingly affluent black man – this traffic stop could have ended with the driver being jailed, hospitalized, or worse, like George Floyd,” Collins added.

Or worse, like George Floyd.

Hill mentioning Floyd is significant. This goes beyond just legal preparations. It prompts a deeper reflection. Firstly, it’s a stark reminder that a police stop could have taken a tragic turn if he weren’t famous.

Principal to this message, and with an impressive legal team, Hill indicates he is gearing up for a broader confrontation. He aspires to be at the forefront of the movement to change police culture.

We have not observed an NFL player make such a bold statement since Colin Kaepernick.

Hill was held by police earlier this month during a traffic stop and has since spoken on police misconduct. However, this recent stance challenges the norm and must be regarded as a serious activism endeavor. This is magnified by the fact that his legal squad includes a previous federal prosecutor and a civil rights attorney who contributed to Floyd’s case.

Nonetheless, it is crucial to recognize the complexities of this discussion, as Hill differs from Kaepernick in an important aspect. Kaepernick had no scandals surrounding his history. While detractors tried to vilify him, he has consistently shown to be a commendable individual. He was the ideal candidate for this struggle.

On the contrary, Hill’s history raises more concerns, particularly incidents of domestic violence, including a notably troubling situation from his college years.

This history is troubling and should not be overlooked or excused.

While Hill’s past misdeeds do not justify the conduct of the police, his history is often highlighted by right-wing individuals and those who believe law enforcement should be free to act as they wish. They use it to undermine his message for police reform, a consistent narrative seen on social media.

It’s essential to confront this significant issue head-on. Acknowledge it openly. Although Hill’s previous behavior is bad, it does not diminish the significance of his current mission, which is profound and commendable.

Certainly, Hill has the potential to drive significant change. This isn’t an exaggeration—he is among the most influential figures in one of America’s most powerful industries. He can leverage his financial and political influence in ways most cannot. Others in the NFL and outside will heed his call. Some politicians will too.

One of Hill’s most important impacts could be to create an environment where other athletes feel empowered to join the cause. This was a hallmark of Kaepernick’s influence.

Hill appears to grasp all of this, which is what his statement communicates most powerfully. It signals not merely a willingness to engage but an understanding of what true engagement entails.

“Miami Dolphins’ superstar Tyreek Hill articulated his commitment to advocate for everyone in the broad struggle against national police misconduct,” another excerpt from the statement noted.

“Hill is determined that his legal counsel will ensure that the voices of those historically marginalized or overlooked in discussions about police reform are finally acknowledged.”

Indeed, Hill may not be flawless, but he is ideally suited for this moment.