Miami Dolphins

Ryan Tannehill becoming more of a leader

Published Jun. 29, 2015 8:37 p.m. ET

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Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill is expected to take the next step on the field in 2015. A year after throwing for 4,045 yards, 27 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, Tannehill should improve on those numbers in 2015 as he enters a second season in Bill Lazor's offense.

While Tannehill is expected to be a big part of the team's success on the field, he is expected to carry a big role off the field as well. That role comes in the form of becoming the leader of a team looking to make the playoffs for the first time since 2008.

After receiving a big contract extension this offseason, teammates have noticed Tannehill's improved leadership during OTAs.

"(He's) kind of taking the team on his shoulders and knowing that, hey, we've got to come out here every day and put something great together," wideout Kenny Stills said. "And if we want to have a chance of being a great team, it's going to come from him and the rest of this offense. He takes pride in that."

Tannehill knows there is a lot more expected of him, especially after getting a big contract from the team.

"I think we have a lot of great leaders, but I definitely consider myself a big leader on this team," he said. "As far as the franchise, they have been great to me this offseason as far as communication through free agency, through the team last year. Obviously the contract is huge. They put their money where their mouth is, so to speak, with the contract and really taking my viewpoint and my thoughts on things throughout the offseason."

Hopefully his leadership off the field will result in more success on the field for both himself and the Dolphins in 2015.

(h/t NFL.com)

Photo Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports