A quick observation of quarterback Ryan Tannehill and how he has played in preparation for the season opener Sept. 13 against the Washington Redskins:
The Miami Dolphins could not ask for more from quarterback Ryan Tannehill this summer. After signing a $96 million contract extension in the spring, the bar was raised for Tannehill to perform well in his fourth season. The results thus far have been astounding.
Tannehill is one of the NFL’s hottest quarterbacks this preseason. He’s completing 80.4 percent of his passes (33 of 41) for 303 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions. Tannehill has a touchdown pass in each of his three preseason games, despite limited reps. He has made huge strides with consistency, both in games and in practices.
“Yeah I feel like I’m ready [for the regular season],” Tannehill said after Saturday's preseason win over the Atlanta Falcons. “Obviously we still have two more weeks until our first game and those practices are going to be crucial. I feel confident in where I am at right now and what we’re building and the next two weeks are going to be crucial for us in getting ready for Washington.”
According to Dolphins coach Joe Philbin, this is the best Tannehill has thrown the football in four seasons. Tannehill’s accuracy has improved and he’s hitting more receivers in stride, which allows for better yards after the catch (YAC). That is an important element in Miami’s offense that was missing at times last year.
Tannehill’s growth could be the key to getting the Dolphins beyond their 8-8 record the past two seasons. So far the quarterback is doing his part.