In Major Surprise, NFL Will Not Suspend Chiefs Star Receiver Tyreek Hill

Arguably the biggest question mark hanging over any team entering training camp – non contract-related category – was with the Kansas City Chiefs and one of the most electric talents in the NFL, receiver/returner Tyreek Hill. It was presumed by pretty much everyone that Hill was going to be suspended a least a couple of games amid allegations of child abuse and domestic violence even though Hill was never charged. Roger Goodell has handed down many a suspension previously even if a player was in the clear legally.

On Friday, the NFL announced that it would not suspend Hill, sending shockwaves through the league. Here are a few key excerpts of the NFL's statement: "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. … 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."

Is Goodell getting soft? Hill came into the league with a history of domestic violence issues. And, remember, Goodell didn't suspend Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott, a previous offender of the Personal Conduct Policy, for an incident in May at a Las Vegas music festival. Might Goodell be softening a bit to help push along an agreement with the NFLPA on a new collective bargaining agreement?

The Chiefs open camp on July 26 (veterans) and obviously Hill will be there now; he had been barred from all team-related activities. In addition, the club is expected to pursue a long-term extension with Hill, who can become an unrestricted free agent this winter. Hill might be on the best contract in the NFL as the 2016 fifth-round pick out of Oklahoma State is on a four-year, $2.58 million deal. Last year, he caught 87 passes for 1,479 yards and 12 scores for the NFL's top offense. Hill also rushed for a score and returned a punt for a TD. There's just no one like him.

The team most unhappy about this news? Probably the Jacksonville Jaguars, who host the Chiefs in Week 1 and surely didn't expect to have to deal with Hill. Kansas City is currently -4 on the NFL odds.