Here are three possible landing spots for $35 million quarterback and former Tennessee Titan, Ryan Tannehill. The veteran signal-caller has been playing above average throughout his 12 years in the league. Although he missed the entire 2017 campaign, he still played at his peak when he was traded to the Titans from Miami. Tannehill earned his first and only Pro Bowl nod, leading Tennessee to the AFC Championship game under head coach Mike Vrabel.
Tannehill began his career with the Dolphins, drafting him out of Texas A&M with the No. 8 overall pick in the first round in 2012. He served as Miami’s starting quarterback through 2018 before the team traded him. Tannehill is 81-70 as a regular-season starter and has a 2-3 mark in the playoffs. According to Pro Football Reference, he completed 64.3% of his passes for 34,881 yards, 216 touchdowns and 115 interceptions.
His illustrious career and playoff experience set him apart from other free-agent quarterbacks who are still available. When consistent, he could back up any starting quarterback with his knowledge and could come in to help on the field if anything. Entering at 36 years old, it seems like he may not be a starter anymore, but rather a backup for any team that needs it. He may pull off being a starter again like Joe Flacco did with the Cleveland Browns stepping in for Deshaun Watson.
It appears that Tannehill will be cheap for any team that needs an emergency quarterback to bring him in on a one-year deal. According to Spotrac, his market value is just near $5 million over on a one-year contract. His type of contract could be essential for any rookie quarterback adjusting to the NFL.
Three Possible Landing Spots for $35 Million Quarterback Ryan Tannehill
Chicago Bears
The most obvious landing destination for Tannehill is with the Chicago Bears. After trading Justin Fields, the team is looking to draft USC’s quarterback Caleb Williams in this year’s NFL Draft. The Bears are making plenty of moves this offseason after the acquisitions of wide receiver Keenan Allen and running back D’Andre Swift. The team is in “win now” mode after making these moves in preparation to bring Williams as their next franchiser.
However, if he isn’t ready or misses significant time then Tannehill could step in to take over duties. He provides a safety net for the team if Williams isn’t the player that they think he is. It would be Williams himself if he decides that he doesn’t want to be selected by the Bears. According to a source, some are pointing out to avoid the Bears after mishandling Fields before trading him.
However, it would be logical to bring Tannehill to lead a team that has all the weapons coming together for a completely new offense.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs have a void to fill after Patrick Mahomes’ backup quarterback Blaine Gabbert has hit the market. Tannehill stepping in could give Arrowhead fans some breathing room in case Mahomes goes down with an injury. He has the playoff experience against Kansas City despite losing both of those meetings. There’s a special saying though if you can’t beat them then join them.
This would be likely the scenario for Tannehill who could look to end his career with at least a ring.
Denver Broncos
The team that desperately needs a quarterback is the Denver Broncos. It’s obvious that they may use their first-round draft pick on their franchiser but it may be too late if they do. Most top quarterback draft prospects will be off the board like Jayden Daniels and J.J. McCarthy. However, they could add Tannehill who has an experienced arm and took his previous team to the playoffs.
Broncos fans have been waiting for another playoff run since Peyton Manning took them to win Super Bowl 50 in 2016. Tannehill could adjust within the system as Sean Payton desires.
