Witnessing Tua Tagovailoa down on the football field after a traumatic collision was a moment none of us wanted to experience. Late Thursday night, we anxiously watched as medical staff tended to the Miami Dolphins quarterback following his scramble in the third quarter that resulted in a collision with Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin. Memories of Tagovailoa’s past concussions quickly flooded our minds, evoking feelings of fear and concern.
The panic that Tagovailoa’s family must have felt in that moment is unimaginable. Everyone, from current and former NFL players to fans, extended their sympathies.
Eventually, Tagovailoa was able to stand up with assistance and make his way off the field under his own power. Before reaching the sideline, Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel shared a comforting word with his player, reminding him of his importance as a family leader and guiding him to take a moment in the locker room before further assessment.
.@KayleeHartung provides an update on Tua Tagovailoa. pic.twitter.com/hiEnuq9ISC
— NFL on Prime Video (@NFLonPrime) September 13, 2024
McDaniel couldn’t conceal his emotions throughout the game and in his postgame press conference. He addressed questions about Tagovailoa’s recovery cautiously, indicating that thorough evaluations would be conducted on the quarterback the following day, with a day-by-day approach planned.
With Tagovailoa now facing his third concussion in three seasons, the Dolphins organization is confronted with a challenging situation. They must await updates on the impact of the recent concussion on the 26-year-old quarterback and then decide on his return to the field.
Tua’s injury history and games missed, NFL career
| Year | Week | Injury | Games missed |
|---|---|---|---|
|
2024 |
2 (Sep. 12) |
Concussion |
TBD |
|
2022 |
16 (Dec. 25) |
Concussion |
3 |
|
2022 |
4 (Sep. 29) |
Concussion |
2 |
|
2021 |
8 (Oct. 31) |
Fracture, finger |
1 |
|
2021 |
2 (Sep. 19) |
Fracture, ribs |
3 |
|
2020 |
After week 10 |
Thumb |
1 |
The Dolphins and their medical team must proceed cautiously to prevent a repeat of 2022, when Tagovailoa may have returned to play prematurely, leading to additional concussions. Concerns over those decisions prompted a joint investigation by the NFL and NFL Players Association’s medical experts.
Recall Week 3 of the 2022 season, where Tagovailoa suffered a significant blow, struggled to maintain balance, and was incorrectly diagnosed with a back injury. Following that incident, Tagovailoa started the next game but experienced a sack that resulted in another concussion. This prompted a stretch of missed games, including a playoff matchup.
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Learning from past mistakes, the Dolphins must ensure a comprehensive evaluation and robust medical protocols as they navigate Tagovailoa’s current concussion. Social media buzzed with opinions post-injury, with suggestions ranging from retirement to protect Tagovailoa from potential further harm.
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The decision isn’t simple. It’s a difficult balance between supporting Tagovailoa’s aspirations and safeguarding his well-being given his injury history. While a talented player, his susceptibility to injuries raises concerns about his long-term health.
The Dolphins face a complex dilemma with a significant investment in Tagovailoa’s future following a lucrative contract extension. Their focus now shifts to his recovery and overall quality of life.
The standard concussion protocol may not suffice in Tagovailoa’s case. Extensive testing and cautious progression are imperative to avoid setbacks and ensure his safety.
McDaniel emphasized the importance of Tagovailoa’s input in the decision-making process, aligned with neurological experts, to determine the best course of action.
If Tagovailoa decides to resume playing and medical clearance is granted, a gradual and meticulous approach will be crucial to minimize risks. The Dolphins must prioritize Tagovailoa’s well-being over football considerations.
Tua Tagovailoa led the NFL in passing yards last season and was the league’s leader through Week 1 of this season. (Jasen Vinlove / USA Today)
With Tagovailoa’s well-being as the top priority, the Dolphins must exercise patience and unwavering support. All football decisions will follow, but only once his health and safety are ensured.
As uncertainty looms over Tagovailoa’s future in the sport, the hope remains that he never faces such a harrowing situation again.
(Top photo of Mike McDaniel kissing Tua Tagovailoa as he exits the field: Megan Briggs / Getty Images)