Report: NFL could place Hill on exempt list this week

Warning: Story contains sensitive content/coarse language

The NFL reviewed the troubling audiotape involving Tyreek Hill, a source told ESPN's Dan Graziano, and is considering placing the Kansas City Chiefs wideout on the commissioner's exempt list as early as this week.

Hill's fiancee, Crystal Espinal, is heard on the tape asking him why their 3-year-old son said "Daddy did it" after suffering a serious arm injury. Hill is also heard telling Espinal, "You need to be terrified of me, too, bitch."

The tape surfaced Thursday and was sent to KCTV by one of Espinal's friends. The NFL and the players' association have reportedly both listened to it, according to Graziano.

Hill and Espinal were each investigated for child abuse, but the case was closed Wednesday due to a lack of evidence over who committed the crime. It was reopened Friday following the release of the tape. The Chiefs told Hill to stay away from the team once the audio emerged.

Chiefs owner Clark Hunt vowed Saturday to make the "right decision" on Hill's future with the team "at the right time."

The commissioner's exempt list essentially puts players on indefinite paid suspensions, although players aren't paid in the offseason. The list is typically reserved for use during the regular season and for players facing criminal allegations or charges.

Hill has evolved into one of the NFL's most electrifying stars since being drafted by Kansas City in 2016. He ranked fourth in receiving last season with 1,479 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning his third consecutive Pro Bowl berth.

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