NASHVILLE – The last time Titans fans saw quarterback Ryan Tannehill on the football field was the same day he was carted off in Los Angeles.
Tannehill returned to action in that contest, but he'd eventually end up on Injured Reserve because of an ankle injury that troubled him a good part of the 2022 season.
Tannehill was forced to watch the final three games of the season, which ended with Saturday's loss to the Jaguars.
In the locker room on Monday, he reflected on the season.
"It's hard watching guys that you care about, and you want to be out there with them, and finding ways to win games," Tannehill said. "It was tough to watch it on TV.
"… We battled through a lot as a team (this season), but unfortunately the injuries and not making the plays down the stretch caught up with us. Obviously, a lot is going to change. But I'm proud of the guys and the fight that we showed even though the result didn't pan out the way we all wanted it to."
Tannehill said the ankle, which required him to miss five games during the season, is getting better.
He said the decision to get surgery last month was based on fact he blew out several ligaments in addition to the ankle sprain. Tannehill said no further surgery is needed, and he hopes to start jogging soon.
"Everything is trending the right way, and rehab is going well," Tannehill said. "I'm really happy with how things are going, it just sucks I had to go through it. Unfortunately, it's a part of the game – I was able to stay away from it for a long time, but it finally caught up to me. I am looking forward to being healthy again."
Tannehill, who remains under contract through 2023 but with a high salary cap figure, said he's hopeful about being back as the team's starting quarterback in 2023.
In 2022, Tannehill threw for 2,536 yards with 13 touchdowns and six interceptions, with a passer rating of 94.6.
"Of course, I'd love to be back here," Tannehill said. "We'll just have to see what happens.
"I definitely have some good years left. I feel really good, even coming off this injury. I feel really good and looking forward to some bright years ahead."
