Ryan Tannehill injury update: Dolphins rule QB out of Wildcard game

The Miami Dolphins hopes that Ryan Tannehill would be able to recover from the sprained ACL and MCL in his left knee in time for him to take back his starting position as the team entered the playoffs looks like it will not be happening. According to multiple media reports, league sources have indicated the Dolphins are ruling out the fifth year quarterback for this Sunday’s Wildcard game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Head coach Adam Gase is expected to confirm that Tannehill is out for the team’s first playoff game since 2008 when he speaks with the media Thursday.

Tannehill injured his left knee against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 14 when he was hit directly in the front of the knee just after he planted and threw a pass. The team initially were concerned that he had torn the ACL, which would require a surgery and likely sideline him for nine to twelve months. After MRI testing revealed sprains, but not complete tears, the team was hopeful that he would be able to return and did not place Tannehill on injured reserve, which would have immediately ended his season.

The Dolphins were hopeful that Tannehill would return to practice this week, but confidence in his knee from both the player and the coaches was never enough to actually allow him on the field during drills.

The team has not given up hope that, should they advance past the Steelers this weekend, Tannehill could return to practice next week and possibly be available to play against the New England Patriots in the divisional round. Matt Moore will continue to start in Tannehill’s place.