Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill has not played since the 2016 campaign. However, that does not seem to have an effect on his expectations for the 2018 NFL season.

Tannehill has heard all the noise surrounding his name while he recovered from the knee injury. According to Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post, he feels more ready than ever:

“Totally believe that,” Tannehill said. “Totally believe that. I am more prepared than I have ever been. To play the position. Everything it encompasses. Physically. Mentally. Emotionally. I’m more solid than I’ve ever been. I’m more consistent fundamentally than I’ve ever been. Play comes in. I know exactly what I have to do. Boom. Boom. Boom.”

Article Continues Below
More Miami Dolphins News
Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) reacts after a touchdown reception during the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium.
Steelers rumors: Pittsburgh renews Jonnu Smith trade talks with DolphinsBenedetto Vitale ·
dolphins, miami dolphins
3 Miami Dolphins hidden gems on 2025 roster you need to knowGarrett Kerman ·
Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) fights for yards during the second half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.
Dolphins star Jonnu Smith’s agent reveals ‘first choice’ amid trade rumorsMiguel La Torre ·
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) signals from the line of scrimmage against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium.
NFL rumors: Bills, 49ers among contenders that should seek Tyreek Hill tradeJaren Kawada ·
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) is tackled by New York Jets running back Isaiah Davis (32) during a punt return during the first half at MetLife Stadium.
NFL rumors: Mike Florio tosses out ‘intriguing’ Tyreek Hill trade idea for BearsSteve Silverman ·
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel with QB Tua Tagovailoa and a silhouette of an American football player with a big question mark emoji inside. There is also a logo for the Miami Dolphins.
1 Miami Dolphins rookie who stood out most in 2025 minicampBen Strauss ·

It is encouraging to see Tannehill so optimistic about his return. There have been some significant changes to the roster since he last played and the Dolphins will need him to be at his best if they are going to be competitive.

Even prior to the knee injuries, the verdict had still been out on Tannehill as a franchise quarterback. His solid numbers were hardly indicative of the struggles he had experienced under center which included his accuracy and decision-making. However, it is clear that Tannehill has spent the majority of his rehab process focusing on these two things.

Regardless, it will be tough to expect him to return to form right away. It is going to take some time for him to get adjusted back to game speed. Furthermore, the departure of wide receiver Jarvis Landry certainly does not help his cause. Tannehill will need to find a new safety net to help him get his rhythm.