Key Takeaways:
– Veteran NFL quarterback Ryan Tannehill remains unsigned in the late May OTAs.
– Pro Football Focus rated Tannehill as the No. 3 free-agent quarterback of the offseason.
– Tampa Bay Buccaneers are now a team to watch as they could sign Tannehill.
– Tannehill’s role at Buccaneers, if signed, might add more weight to their group given his level of experience.
The NFL Offseason’s Unexpected Free Agent
In a surprising turn of events during the NFL’s offseason, 11-year veteran and 2019 Pro Bowl quarterback Ryan Tannehill remains unsigned. This unexpected news comes as the Organized Team Activities (OTAs) commence towards the end of May.
Despite being ranked as the No. 3 free-agent quarterback heading into the offseason by Pro Football Focus, Tannehill’s current joblessness is turning heads. Putting Tannehill behind Kirk Cousins and the Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield, the delay in signing him is raising speculations.
Could Tannehill’s Possible Landing at Buccaneers be Deliberate?
Some might argue that Tannehill’s present status is a strategic move, allowing him to wait for a potential injury to occur or for a team lacking quarterback depth to start floundering. ESPN analyst Matt Bowen suggested that Tannehill is likely biding his time for the perfect opportunity to arise during the camp and sees the Buccaneers as a strong contender to recruit the seasoned QB.
Behind Baker Mayfield, the Buccaneers’ backup quarterbacks Kyle Trask and John Wolford have only 10 appearances and 114 career NFL passes thrown combined. The addition of Tannehill’s expertise could strengthen their roster and reduce the significant drop from the starter to the backup line.
Tannehill’s Former Performance and Experience
Last season, Tannehill showcased his skill with the Tennessee Titans, completing 64.8% of his passes for 1,616 yards. Despite struggling in recent seasons, the pro has an overall commendable record, with an 81-70 career win with the Dolphins and Titans.
Tannehill’s ability to win off play action, solid intermediate accuracy, and his speed, despite operating behind a less efficient line, demonstrates his caliber as a quarterback. He may prove to be a valuable addition to Buccaneers with Baker Mayfield as the lead, mostly focusing on intensive preventative efforts.
Adding Veteran Presence to the Buccaneers
With Baker Mayfield locked in a new three-year contract worth $100 million, Tannehill’s possible addition offers Buccaneers a security blanket in case of an injury to Mayfield. However, he could also play a different role, adding more veteran presence to the quarterback room.
The new offensive coordinator, Liam Coen, has valued a veteran presence in the room. Coen, in taking up his new role following Dave Canales’ departure, emphasized the importance of players leading the momentum. Tannehill, with his decade long experience, could be the perfect fit for this internal strategy.
Coen believes that Mayfield’s veteran presence has been beneficial for the team. Adding Tannehill to the mix could extend this influence, bringing more maturity and insight into Buccaneers’ planning and play.
In conclusion, as the offseason progresses, all eyes are on Ryan Tannehill – waiting to see where this seasoned player will land. ESPN believes Buccaneers are the team to watch as they could greatly benefit from Tannehill’s experience. Whether Tannehill indeed waits for an opportunity in the camp or signs up with Buccaneers, he is an asset that any team would be lucky to have.