Miami Dolphins Select Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M 2012 NFL Draft Live Grades

With the eighth pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins have selected Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M.

Here is our report on Tannehill:

Not unlike the Dos Equis guy, Tannehill is one of the most interesting men in the (NCAA football) world. At 6’4″ 220 he has the makeup of the ideal NFL quarterback, but he just took over as the team’s starting quarterback late in 2010 and prior to that was the backup QB–as well as a playmaker at wide receiver. Yes, you read that correctly, and you must YouTube it to believe it. Tannehill was a big time playmaker at WR who at one point led the Aggies in all time receiving yards. Could be one of the most versatile players in the entire draft. Has been a very good WR for the Aggies as well as a playmaker at the QB position who emerged as the starter last year, and is just a guy who you want the ball in his hands at all times. Has a rushing touchdown, has punted for the Aggies, and also has a tackle. Throw in a couple of two-point conversions as well, and you have one of my favorite up-coming prospects in the draft. I can’t wait to see if he makes strides as a quarterback this offseason. I think he will emerge this season as one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the country, a guy that you always want with the ball in his hands when the game is on the line. Characterized as one of the hottest quarterbacks in the country at the end of last season.

“This is my team, my offense, and it’s my job to lead them,” Tannehill said earlier this month. “The leadership role is definitely different. I’m the guy, instead of a second-team player. It definitely carries a different leadership role that allows me to step up and get guys going when we start dragging a little bit.”

Live Pick Grade: B

I think this is a bit of a reach for Tannehill, but if the Dolphins feel he can be a franchise quarterback, this pick will be worth it. The jury is out, but I like this pick okay for the ‘Phins. Tannehill is a hard worker with great size and intangibles.