Vikings in Talks with Ryan Tannehill for Quarterback Depth

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly in discussions with veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill as they look to bolster their depth behind second-year signal-caller J.J. McCarthy.

Reports indicate that the Vikings have reached out to Tannehill regarding a potential deal, although no agreement has been finalized as discussions are ongoing. NFL insider Jordan Schultz tweeted, “Sources: The Vikings have had discussions with former Titans QB Ryan Tannehill about a potential deal. Talks are ongoing and nothing is imminent as of right now.”

This pursuit comes after the Vikings opted not to re-sign quarterback Sam Darnold, who had a standout season, instead choosing to move forward with McCarthy, selected No. 10 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. The decision reflects a strategic pivot to emphasize development in McCarthy’s second year.

Tannehill, 36, spent five seasons with the Tennessee Titans, where he started 68 of 72 games and led the team to five postseason appearances, boasting a 41-27 record as a starter, including the playoffs. His impressive stats include 1,234 completions on 1,853 attempts for 14,447 yards, 93 touchdowns, and 40 interceptions.

Among his career highlights, Tannehill won the Comeback Player of the Year Award in 2019 and earned a Pro Bowl selection. During that season, he guided the Titans to the AFC Championship, although they ultimately fell short against the Kansas City Chiefs, the eventual Super Bowl champions.

As the NFL offseason unfolds, the Vikings are assessing their roster in preparation for the upcoming draft, which will be held April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. In light of recent free agency activity, teams’ priorities are becoming clearer, and the Vikings are looking to add depth in critical areas, particularly at quarterback.

In the lead-up to the draft, the Vikings are expected to clarify their needs further, especially with McCarthy expected to be the starter. If negotiations with Tannehill continue, it could provide necessary experience behind McCarthy as he navigates his second year in the league.