With all the noise about Tom Brady possibly coming to Nashville, it appears the Tennessee Titans’ focus is really on re-signing Ryan Tannehill.
According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, locking up Tannehill to a long-term deal is the team’s “No. 1 priority” at this time.
Rapoport has remained consistent that the Titans are really trying to bring Tannehill back as opposed to signing Brady, and he reiterated that once again in this latest report.
Why no deal with Tannehill has gotten done to this point isn’t known, but perhaps it has to do with the quarterback seeking a huge payday that has the Titans trying to meet him in the middle.
Per Spotrac, Tannehill’s market value in a contract is three years for $79.9 million, an annual average salary of $26.6 million. That sounds about right for what Tannehill would command if he were to hit the open market.
As we inch closer to the new franchise tag deadline on March 16, the Titans could also take that route with Tannehill should no long-term deal be reached.
However, Tennessee would probably prefer to save that for Derrick Henry if necessary, or even for Jack Conklin in order to setup a tag and trade situation with the right tackle.
Tannehill led the Titans from a 2-4 record to a 9-7 finish and a playoff berth last season after taking over as the starter in Week 7. He also finished first in passer rating, third in completion percentage, and he took home the Comeback Player of the Year award.