NFL: The best trade in each franchise’s history

Best trade in Tennessee Titans history: Acquiring  Ryan Tannehill

This one might be a bit too early to call but it just feels right. Before quarterback Ryan Tannehill came into the fold, the Tennessee Titans were stuck with the slightly above average Marcus Mariota. While the signal-caller had a few decent seasons and managed to make a playoff appearance, his numbers when it mattered most were always underwhelming.

Tired of waiting on Mariota to blossom into something he clearly never was, the Titans took a chance on journeyman Ryan Tannehill in 2019. The Titans forked over a seventh-round pick in that year’s draft and a 2020 fourth-rounder. He was already 31 at the time and much like Mariota, Tannehill was very much mediocre during his time in Miami. However, for whatever reason, Tannehill became a flat-out stud with the Titans.

Their new signal-caller threw for 2,742 yards, not an impressive number considering he threw for over 4,000 yards twice in Miami but unlike the empty calories he was putting up over there, Tannehill actually started winning. It also helped in a big way that arguably the best running back in the league in Derrick Henry kept opposing defenses honest.

Tannehill’s first year resulted in a career-high in pass percentage with 70.2. He was also forced to make room on his shelf at home as he took home the 2019 Comeback Player of the Year. The Titans made it all the way to the AFC Championship game that season before falling short to the Kansas City Chiefs. This past year, he threw for 3,819 yards and a career-best 33 TDs against only seven picks. He was also named to his first Pro Bowl this year.

It’s still early, but all signs point to this trade being the best in Titans history considering the small amount of compensation they gave up for their new lead man.