Vikings Explore Veteran QB Ryan Tannehill as Potential Backup

Minnesota’s Quarterback Dilemma The Minnesota Vikings are in search of a reliable backup quarterback, and their latest target appears to be veteran Ryan Tannehill. According to FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz, the Vikings have engaged in discussions with Tannehill regarding a potential contract. While no deal has been finalized, the possibility of adding an experienced signal-caller to the roster remains on the table.

Tannehill’s Career and Recent Hiatus Tannehill, 36, did not play during the 2024 NFL season after parting ways with the Tennessee Titans. Over his 11-season career, he has accumulated 34,881 passing yards, 216 touchdowns, and 115 interceptions while playing for both the Miami Dolphins and Titans. His most successful years came in 2020 and 2021, when he led Tennessee to impressive 11-5 and 12-5 records, respectively. A former Pro Bowler and the 2019 Comeback Player of the Year, Tannehill has showcased his ability to lead a team effectively.

Why the Vikings Need a Veteran QB With the departure of Sam Darnold to the Seattle Seahawks and Daniel Jones signing with the Indianapolis Colts, Minnesota is left with just two quarterbacks on the roster: J.J. McCarthy and Brett Rypien.

McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is expected to take over as the team’s starting quarterback in 2025. However, he is coming off a meniscus injury that kept him sidelined for the entire 2024 season. Rypien, on the other hand, has only appeared in 10 games since entering the league in 2019, making him an unreliable option should McCarthy struggle or suffer another injury.

What Tannehill Brings to the Table Signing Tannehill would provide the Vikings with an experienced and steady backup who could mentor McCarthy while also being prepared to step in if needed. Despite not playing in 2024, Tannehill has proven throughout his career that he can manage an offense efficiently, particularly in a play-action-heavy system similar to what head coach Kevin O’Connell runs in Minnesota.

One concern, however, is Tannehill’s willingness to accept a backup role. In the past, he has expressed hesitation about mentoring younger quarterbacks, notably stating in 2022 that it wasn’t his job to guide then-rookie Malik Willis in Tennessee. The Vikings must ensure that any veteran they sign is willing to take on a leadership role alongside McCarthy.

Will a Deal Be Reached? While talks have taken place, it remains uncertain whether Tannehill will ultimately sign with the Vikings. His name has been linked to other teams in need of a veteran presence, and he may still be holding out for an opportunity to compete for a starting job elsewhere.

For Minnesota, the priority is securing a veteran who can support McCarthy’s transition to the NFL while providing a safety net in case of injury or underperformance. If Tannehill is open to embracing that role, he could be a solid addition to the Vikings’ quarterback room. If not, the team may need to explore other options before the start of the 2025 season.