Tanner Conner

Tanner Conner's Biography

Tanner Conner, born on March 20, 1998, is a celebrated American professional football tight end for the Miami Dolphins, a renowned team in the National Football League (NFL). Apart from his distinguished presence in the football field, he has also left his mark in basketball and track and field, proving himself to be a versatile athlete right from his early years. Tanner’s journey into professional sports, particularly football, is a testament to his relentless dedication, perseverance, and innate athleticism.

Raised in Kent, Washington, Tanner’s affinity for sports became evident during his time at Kentridge High School. Here, the budding athlete plunged himself into multiple sports, including basketball and football. He also showcased his speed and agility as a hurdler on the track team, a skill that would later augment his football career. In his senior year, Tanner went on to clinch the state championship in the 300-meter hurdles, depicting the potential he carried as a sportsman.

Despite his commendable performances in high school sports, Tanner wasn’t immediately scouted for college football. He initially was committed to run track at Idaho State. However, recognizing his potential, the university offered him a chance to play football, setting Tanner on the path to an illustrious career in this sport.

Tanner’s freshman season at Idaho State was marked with a redshirt, allowing him extra time for growth and development in the game. After this break, this up-and-coming player saw a breakthrough in his redshirt sophomore season, where his formidable performances earned him an honorable mention in the All-Big Sky Conference. Tanner ended that season with an impressive 47 receptions for 792 yards and eight touchdowns.

Continuing his upward trajectory, Tanner dominated his redshirt junior year with 34 catches for 685 yards and three touchdowns, earning him first-team All-Big Sky honors. By his redshirt senior year, he was recognized as the 12th-most athletic player in college football on sportswriter Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freaks List”. That season, he finished with 42 receptions for 735 yards with four touchdowns, earning him second-team All-Big Sky acknowledgments.

Apart from representing his school in football, Tanner also was an vital part of Idaho State’s track and field team. He competed in the 110-meter hurdles, the 100 meters, and the 4×100 meters relay during the outdoor season and the 60-meter hurdles and 60 meters during indoor events.

Tanner’s unyielding commitment and brilliant performances led him to be signed by the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent on April 30, 2022. This occurred right after the conclusion of the 2022 NFL draft. Despite the fierce competition, he secured a spot in the Dolphins’ initial 53-man roster after training camp. However, on August 29, 2023, the Dolphins waived Tanner, only to re-sign him to the practice squad later. He further signed a reserve/future contract on January 15, 2024, securing his spot in the team.

Interestingly, Tanner’s passion for football runs in his family. His father, Andy Conner, played college football at the prestigious University of Oregon. This shared love for the sport undoubtedly fueled Tanner’s commitment and helped shape his career in football. Over the years, Tanner Conner has evolved into a formidable athlete, showcasing both talent and the commitment necessary to succeed in professional sports.