Miami Dolphins Preview: Ryan Tannehill

Dec 28, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) throws a pass against the New York Jets during the second half at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

2015 Preview

If Tannehill wants to become an elite level quarterback in 2015, he must continue to evolve as a quarterback and work on his flaws.

Think back to some of the Dolphins’ close games in 2014 and how many of them could have been wins if Tannehill and his receiving corps could have just completed a deep pass.

Detroit, Green Bay, Denver – all close games against playoff teams that the Dolphins lost and could have won if just one big play was made by the quarterback.

It won’t be any different this upcoming season if Tannehill continues to struggle with the long ball. If the Dolphins are to make the playoffs, Tannehill is going to have to make some big plays.

The Dolphins start out next season on a two game road swing to Washington and Jacksonville. Last season, both teams had sub par pass defenses but Tannehill struggled mightily in the 2014 matchup against the Jaguars. If Tannehill is to take the next step then he cannot struggle against poor passing defenses and Dolphins fans can get a glimpse of that in just the first two weeks.

Then the Dolphins will take on the Bills and Jets defenses in Weeks Three and Four. These matchups will answer the next question of whether Tannehill can learn to put the ball out of danger rather than take a sack against two aggressive pass rushes.

Tannehill’s 2015 will be judged on whether he can turn the corner from being that young quarterback with elite potential to being one of the best.

The Dolphins front office has provided him with some young and explosive talent, but will he have the time to get them the ball?