Tennessee Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill is not currently present at the start of the team’s voluntary portion of the offseason program, which began on Monday, April 18.
This caused a stir among fans and some media who feel Tannehill should be there every day of the program, especially after having been a major cause of the Titans’ divisional round loss to the Cincinnati Bengals last season.
When asked about his quarterback during Thursday’s pre-draft press conference, Vrabel said he’d like every player to be in attendance, but noted he’s in contact with Tannehill and expects him to arrive soon, according to Jim Wyatt of Titans Online.
“I have had communication with Ryan,” Vrabel said. “As the head coach, I want every single player here. I would love to see that happen. I have had communications with Ryan, and I am comfortable with where those are at. I expect him back here pretty shortly.”
Where is Tannehill, exactly? Based on comments from tight end Austin Hooper on Monday, it appears he’s still in Florida with his family.
Apparently Ryan Tannehill isn't w/ the Titans yet for Phase 1 of offseason activities. Austin Hooper when asked about TE/QB chemistry "Until he gets here, I'm just going to let him enjoy his time w/family while I get in shape, get to know my teammates & the system in place here."
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) April 18, 2022
Tannehill isn’t the only veteran not present at OTAs yet, and it’s far from rare for more established players to skip at least a portion of the voluntary workouts.
The frustration with Tannehill has everything to do with how last season ended and nothing to do with this coming one. Missing the early portion of OTAs will not make or break him, so in the words of Aaron Rodgers:
“R-E-L-A-X; relax. We’re going to be OK.”
