The Miami Dolphins have finally found a quarterback they can build around, and now their job is to lock him down for the immediate future. While there were questions about Ryan Tannehill's long-term viability before the 2014 season started, Tannehill responded with a strong campaign that convinced Miami's front office that - at least for now - he's by far their best option under center.
Tannehill increased his completion percentage from 60.4% in 2013 to 66.4% in 2014, and he broke the 4,000 yard barrier while throwing 27 TDs (a career high) and 12 INTs (a career low). While the season didn't end the way the team or the fans had hoped, there was no blame leveled on Tannehill, who completed over 70% of his passes in five straight games heading into the stretch run. The Dolphins dropped four of their last six to fall out of playoff contention, but Tannehill wasn't the one who let up 117 combined points against the Broncos, Patriots and Jets.
Now, the team is in talks with Tannehill regarding a long-term contract extension, and the early news is all positive. Tannehill's camp is after a deal that would pay him over $100 million over seven seasons, and while that's a LOT of money, it doesn't sound like the team has a problem committing to the 26-year-old QB. It also sounds as though the deal will involve a number of incentives that would soften the financial blow to the franchise if Tannehill is injured or unexpectedly dethroned by another player.
While we're told significant progress has already been made, it's unclear how close the two sides are to agreeing to terms. Tannehill's current deal expires at the end of the 2015 season, so while there's plenty of time to get things straightened out, the team won't want things to drag out and linger over the summer. Stay tuned to our Miami Dolphins page for all the latest.
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