Ryan Tannehill has started over 150 NFL games for the Miami Dolphins and Tennessee Titans. He led the Titans to the AFC Championship Game in 2019. But almost three weeks into free agency, the 35-year-old is still looking for a new home.
On some level, that's understandable. Tannehill's 2023 campaign was an injury-marred mess—he barely threw for 1,600 yards, tossed three more interceptions than touchdown passes and posted a passer rating of less than 80. But as this year's quarterback carousel slows, Tannehill is probably the best veteran option left—and there are still teams with shaky situations under center in 2024.
One of those is in Denver, where Russell Wilson's release left both the largest dead cap hit in league history and a gaping hole at quarterback. The Broncos are a trendy pick to trade up in the 2024 draft, but Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports mentioned Tannehill as a low-cost stopgap if that doesn't come to pass.
Denver has yet to add a quarterback this offseason, and while an early draft investment would be logical, Tannehill offers an experienced arm best suited to play within a system -- just as Sean Payton desires," he said. "At 35, he's a low-ceiling rental, sure, but the best alternative in Denver right now is Jarrett Stidham."
The Las Vegas Raiders are in an eerily similar situation. Last year's 8-9 season leaves the Raiders too far down the draft to grab an elite arm without an expensive trade. And arguing whether Aidan O' Connell or Stidham is the better NFL starter is equal parts depressing and pointless.
The Chicago Bears have the first overall pick in 2024—a pick that will all but certainly be used on USC quarterback Caleb Williams. But there is precious little experience behind Williams in the Windy City. Tannehill's experience over 11 pro seasons could come in handy as Williams learns the NFL ropes.
Best Fits: Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders
