Barring injury, the Ryan Tannehill era with the Tennessee Titans has come to an end after the team officially named rookie signal-caller Will Levis as the starter on Tuesday.
During his media availability, Vrabel announced the decision to go to Levis after impressive performances in each of the last two games.
“Let me clear up some things here moving forward,” Vrabel said, according to Jim Wyatt. “Will is going to be our quarterback. We are going to go with Will. We think that is the best opportunity for our football team right now.
“I think Ryan will progress though here this week. And we’re hopeful he can be a back-up here for us and prepare as a starter. That’s where we’re at right now.”
When asked about Tannehill’s status, Vrabel did not say if the veteran would be available as he continues to work his way back from a high-ankle sprain.
When asked if Ryan Tannehill is fully healthy and able to play, Mike Vrabel said he wouldn't say that but he's working his way back from a high ankle sprain.
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) November 7, 2023
While there was a fear the Titans may go back to Tannehill, moving forward with Levis was always the most likely (and really only) choice.
Not only does Levis give Tennessee the best chance to win right now, he’s also shown flashes of having what it takes to be this team’s next franchise quarterback.
“There’s clearly something there, and we want to be able to continue to work with him and progress and develop and win – that’s how you get better,” Vrabel said. “You only get better by going out there and playing, especially at that position. So this will be a huge test for any quarterback, going on the road, in Tampa, with what they are able to do, how well they are coached schematically, but also the players they have, the pressure packages, the disguises that they are able to have, and as many turnovers as they’ve been able to create.
“Everything we’re doing, we’re trying to do in the best interest of the football team, and that’s today. What happens in the future I can’t control. I am focused on today, and the decision at that position.”
Now, it’s all about developing Levis the rest of the season and seeing what happens. If the Titans miss the playoffs, they’ll be armed with a good first-round pick and a league-high $100 million in cap space to help move the Levis era forward in 2024.
