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The Ryan Tannehill years in Miami are tough to assess, as Dolphins fans can readily note the mediocrity the franchise is currently mired in. Tannehill is now part of the riddle that is Tennessee Titans football. He's also looking for a fresh start. Given the quarterback fortunes of Marcus Mariota, it may also be an opportunity to once again lead a football team sooner rather than later.
By no means is this a criticism of the current starter in Tennessee. Mariota has had his own issues staying healthy and on the field. That said, in a year where the Titans will be taking a long look at their future at quarterback, it's hard to imagine Tannehill isn't a bet worth taking.
The Titans have also made it clear they want Mariota to succeed. Owner Amy Adams Strunk has echoed those sentiments to all who will listen:
“Marcus, I want him to be successful,” Strunk said. “I want him to be our franchise quarterback,” adding, “It was a tough year from an injury standpoint last year, and I know that Marcus is raring to go and prove that he can be that guy.”
Without question, Mariota has been walking wounded. In 2018, the list of injuries was impressive only from the standpoint of the number of ailments Maritoa had. From an ulnar nerve issue to a cracked vertebra, as well as a plantar fascia injury which became a full-blown tear in Week 16. Add on a broken rib and a sprained AC shoulder joint, and Tennessee never had a chance.
The challenge for Strunk and her Titans, is where do they go from here? Sure, they want Mariota to be successful, but at what point are they wish-casting and hoping he doesn’t get hurt?
The Heisman Trophy winner has been all about hope, but then again, what NFL prospect isn't? As a pro, Mariota has yet to play a full complement of 16 regular season games. In Tennessee, they may be wondering if he ever will.
With Tannehill on board, the Titans have a chance to get through a full season with a starting quarterback, be it Mariota or the former Dolphins QB. It's a smart gamble for an organization who has yet to know such a scenario.
Mariota knows that nothing is assured entering year five of an on again, off again career. It wouldn't be illogical if he is feeling an element of pressure to perform at a level he hasn't. Tannehill will push him, if for no other reason than he's been a starter in the NFL and wants to assume that role again.
For his part, Mariota has completed 1,015-of-1,605 passes for 12,004 yards and 69 touchdowns, adding 42 interceptions. His completion percentage is 63.2 percent, and his career passer rating is 89.4. Since being the second overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, it's been potential unrealized.
Marcus Mariota has the right approach. He seems content to to do his best, and let the chips fall where they may in 2019.
That's nice.
He should also know, which it sounds like he does, that business may ultimately dictate how his career winds up in Tennessee.
Tannehill will have a lot to say about that subject too.
