While they have been in communication with a veteran quarterback, reports confirm that Aaron Rodgers is not in their plans. Instead, the team is exploring other experienced options to complement McCarthy.

Vikings Commit to McCarthy but Seek Veteran Quarterback for Depth and Mentorship

Following the departure of Sam Darnold, who signed with the Seattle Seahawks, the Vikings have reportedly committed to McCarthy as their starter. However, they are looking to add an experienced quarterback to provide depth and mentorship. While there were speculations about potential interest in Aaron Rodgers, the team is not pursuing him and is instead turning to other seasoned quarterbacks.

One of the quarterbacks the Vikings have shown interest in is Ryan Tannehill. Although no deal has been discussed yet, Fox Sports reports that he is on their radar. Tannehill, who played for the Tennessee Titans from 2019 to 2023, did not sign with a team in 2024. Given his availability and experience, he could be a viable option for the Vikings as they seek a veteran presence in their quarterback room.

Tannehill’s Experience and Leadership Could Benefit Teams Seeking a Veteran Quarterback

Tannehill, now 36 years old, has been selective about his next move, stating that he would only join a team if the situation felt right. This cautious approach led him to sit out the entire 2024 season.

His last NFL action came in January 2024, following a 2023 season in which he played 10 games, starting eight, and finishing with a 3-5 record. Despite his struggles, his experience and leadership could be valuable for a team looking for a seasoned backup or mentor.

Tannehill began his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins, where he played for seven seasons before joining the Titans for five more. Over his 11-year career, he has played in 155 games, amassing 34,881 passing yards, 216 touchdowns, and 115 interceptions, with an 81-70 record as a starter.

In the postseason, he has started five games, all with Tennessee, holding a 2-3 record with 754 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and five interceptions. If the Vikings proceed with Tannehill, they will be adding a veteran with a solid track record and playoff experience to their roster.

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On Friday, Tannehill mentioned his ongoing effort to reach 100 percent recovery, stating, “I’m still working my way trying to get back to 100 percent. I’m able to move around and get work in at practice. I feel a lot better than the last few weeks.”

Tannehill sustained a right high ankle sprain in Week 6 against the Baltimore Ravens and had been in a walking boot during the Week 7 bye, gradually progressing to walking on his own the following week. Unfortunately, he was unable to play in Weeks 8 and 9.

As a result of Tannehill’s return, second-year quarterback Malik Willis moves to the No. 3 quarterback position. Coach Vrabel also ruled out two starters, wide receiver Treylon Burks and cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting, along with reserve tackle Andre Dillard.

Burks will miss his second game due to a concussion suffered in Week 9, while Murphy-Bunting underwent a procedure on his right thumb, causing him to miss last week’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Dillard is sidelined with a concussion suffered in the Tampa Bay game.

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“I’m feeling the impact,” Tannehill admitted, reflecting on his unique position. “I’ve never encountered a situation like this before, and it’s not a scenario anyone desires, but it’s the reality I’m currently facing.”

Tannehill revealed that Titans head coach Mike Vrabel had informed him of the quarterback switch on Monday, with the official team announcement coming the following Tuesday in the days since Tannehill has been working to process his emotions and mentally adjust to his new backup role while also resuming practice after a hiatus due to a right high ankle sprain suffered in Week 6 against the Baltimore Ravens.

His primary focus now revolves around regaining full health. Tannehill has gradually increased his on-field activities, although Vrabel mentioned they will evaluate his capabilities before determining whether he will share scout-team reps with Malik Willis.

Despite the disappointment of losing his starting position, Tannehill maintains a professional attitude and a commitment to supporting Levis in his new role. “I’m here to answer any questions he has and provide assistance along the way,” Tannehill emphasized, emphasizing his willingness to collaborate with the rookie quarterback.

Levis, in turn, praised Tannehill’s approach, commending the manner in which the veteran quarterback has maintained professionalism and offered assistance. “During practice yesterday, he did a great job of stepping in and assuring me that the reps, even at the start of practice with the first team, were mine,” Levis noted. “I didn’t want to overstep, but he proactively reached out to me, making it clear that this was my moment. It was a cool gesture.”

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In his post-game comments to Titans.com, Tannehill stated, “That freaking sucks. It’s part of the game where I could get injured, but it’s not an enjoyable process, especially when you know it’s got some significance to it, so we’ll see what it’s gonna look like as we move forward here.

Get a real look at it when we get back with the MRI and everything. Get a plan moving forward. But yeah, you know. It’s frustrating, right? You battle, you put so much into it, and then to have something happen like that, it’s frustrating.”

Tannehill’s injury occurred after completing 8-of-16 passes for 76 yards and an interception against the Ravens. In his absence, Malik Willis stepped in, although there’s uncertainty about his ability to perform consistently.

If Willis struggles, the Titans might turn to rookie quarterback Will Levis, a second-round draft pick this year.

The Titans have a bye week ahead, providing Tannehill with some additional time for recovery before their game against the Atlanta Falcons. The team hopes this extended break might minimize the games missed due to Tannehill’s injury.

The crucial factor in determining the Titans’ quarterback situation will be the results of Tannehill’s MRI, scheduled for this week. The outcome will provide a clearer picture of the team’s options and strategies moving forward.

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