Tennessee Titans: Why Ryan Tannehill might be a better leader than he gets credit for
After a long and grueling off-season, Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill took the podium to address the media on Tuesday following the NFL Draft. It was Tannehill’s first appearance in front of the media since the Titans season ended in a heartbreaking playoff loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Tannehill, who will be entering his fourth season with […]
After a long and grueling off-season, Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill took the podium to address the media on Tuesday following the NFL Draft. It was Tannehill’s first appearance in front of the media since the Titans season ended in a heartbreaking playoff loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Tannehill, who will be entering his fourth season with the Titans, was not just a large cause of the Titans early playoff exit, but has also been at the center of recent controversy surrounding the team. The 33-year-old failed to appear at Titans voluntary workouts at first, prompting questions about his leadership and future within the organization.
With Tennessee trading his favorite target AJ Brown and selecting Liberty QB Malik Willis in last week’s draft, it seems as if his seat has only gotten hotter.
Tannehill began by addressing his leadership, work ethic, and absence in Tuesday’s press conference:
According to Tannehill, he felt it was best for him to take extra time with his family before reporting to workouts, but clarified that his location didn’t effect his preparation.
“I’m working. Just because I'm at home doesn’t mean I'm relaxing. I'm running, I'm throwing, I'm working. I'm getting myself mentally and physically ready to go,” Tannehill said.
The quarterback also sent a message to those who believe he’s not cut out to lead the Titans to the Super Bowl:
“Everyone’s entitled to their own opinion. I have utmost confidence in myself and know I have everything it takes. I’m going to come into this year with a fire and a passion, attack this season, and know that I have to play my best football in January,” said Tannehill.
Whether or not Tannehill is up for the task remains to be seen.
His three interceptions in the Divisional Round last season may not point to future playoff success, but him making improvements certainly isn’t unthinkable.
That said, you worry about the playoffs when you get there. The question that needs to be asked in the present is whether he is the leader the Titans locker room needs to get back to that point.
Wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, who also spoke on Tuesday, spoke to Tannehill’s leadership ability and role within the team:
“He’s very clear and concise with his communication. We know what he wants from us. He walks the walk. I see him do exactly what he holds us to do,” said Westbrook-Ikhine.
It certainly sounds like Tannehill’s claims about work and preparation have some validity. At the very least, they have some credibility within the Titans locker room, which is cause for some optimism.
Tannehill may be flawed on the field at times, and sure, the optics aren't great. But, the Tennessee Titans need the best football he has in him and whatever helps Tannehill improve is a net positive.
Tuesday's press conference should diminish some of the concern regarding Tannehill's commitment to growing his game and relationship's with teammates.
Don't mind the narratives, he may be a better leader than he gets credit for.
Image via Kirby Lee – USA TODAY Sports
