Tua Tagovailoa Faces Another Setback: Miami Dolphins Quarterback on Injured Reserve
Miami Dolphins' quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has once again become the focus of intense scrutiny and concern. The team is preparing for their second consecutive game without him after he suffered a concussion during the Dolphins' Week 2 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Tagovailoa was placed on injured reserve following the collision with Bills safety Damar Hamlin while rushing for a first down. The impact led to a frightening scene on the field as Tagovailoa exhibited the "fencing response," a sign of neurological distress. This alarming incident has intensified calls for better player safety and raised questions about Tagovailoa's future in the sport.
This marks the third concussion Tagovailoa has experienced in his NFL career. He sustained a similar injury in 2022 during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, which resulted in him being taken off the field on a stretcher. Despite these setbacks, Tagovailoa remains determined to continue his career.
"The frightening scene in Week 2 caused many to call for Tagovailoa to retire from football, but he apparently has no plans to do so -- even after what is officially his third NFL concussion," noted ESPN insider Adam Schefter.
While the incident in Week 2 was sobering, Tagovailoa has been symptom-free and is making steady progress. He has been meeting regularly with neurologists and is expected to return to the field soon. Tagovailoa is eligible to come back from injured reserve in Week 8, when the Dolphins host the Arizona Cardinals.
Despite his injury struggles, Tagovailoa's performance on the field has been commendable. In 2023, he led the league with 4,624 passing yards, coupled with 29 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. This stellar performance earned him a four-year contract extension worth $212.4 million, with $167 million guaranteed.
Adam Schefter commented on the quarterback's resilience, saying, "Adam Schefter believes no one has told him anything that would dissuade him from wanting to keep playing." This determination illustrates Tagovailoa's commitment to his team and the sport, despite the risks involved.
Tagovailoa's situation is a sobering reminder of the physical toll that football can take on its players. His repeated concussions highlight the urgent need for ongoing dialogue and action regarding player safety. The Dolphins, their fans, and the broader football community will undoubtedly be monitoring his recovery closely, hoping for his safe return to an already promising career.