A surprising development has emerged in the NFL world: former Pro Bowl quarterback Ryan Tannehill appears to have stepped away from professional football in quiet fashion.
The former first-round pick, known for his impressive passer rating and consistent play, has made the decision to retire without any public announcement during the season.
Tannehill, drafted eighth overall by the Miami Dolphins in 2012, started his career in South Florida, showing early promise as a talented quarterback out of Texas A&M.
Over six seasons with the Dolphins, he threw for 20,434 yards and 123 touchdowns. However, it wasn’t until his trade to the Tennessee Titans in 2019 that he truly hit his stride.
A huge impact with the Titans
His first season with the Titans was remarkable: he completed 70.3 percent of his passes, threw for 2,742 yards and 22 touchdowns, earned his first Pro Bowl selection, and led the NFL in passer rating.
This surge earned Tannehill a four-year, $118 million contract extension with the Tennessee outfit in 2020 after leading the team to the AFC Championship Game.
He also won the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award in 2019.
Despite these highs, Tannehill did not play after the 2023 season, as Will Levis assumed the starting role following an aggravated ankle injury.
In an interview with The Escapist, Tannehill revealed that while he had opportunities in 2024, none felt right.
“I stayed ready … I had plenty of calls, but nothing ever felt like the right opportunity … That was last NFL season,” he said.
Tannehill’s candid confession
Tannehill admitted that although he has stayed in shape, he hasn’t been throwing regularly – a sign a return would be unlikely.
“I think that ship has sailed for me,” Tannehill stated.
Away from football, Tannehill has embraced family life and community involvement.
He recently joined Joe Theismann and Alejandro Villanueva at a “Salute to Service” flag football event in Spain.
Though understated, Tannehill‘s retirement marks the end of an 11-year career defined by resilience, leadership, and accuracy.
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