Despite growing concerns from experts and fans urging Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to retire after his latest concussion, it seems his heart remains set on playing.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Tagovailoa, who suffered a concussion during Thursday’s game against the Buffalo Bills, has no intention of stepping away from the game despite this new head injury.
“Tua Tagovailoa and his doctors will make the final decisions regarding his health and playing status. They will drive the process,” Rapoport explained. “From what I understand, Tagovailoa has no plans to retire. His focus is on returning to the field.”
When Tagovailoa will be cleared to play remains unclear, but Rapoport hinted that the situation may play out similarly in 2022. That year, Tagovailoa’s concussion concerns began during a game against the Bills, though it was initially deemed a back injury. Days later, during a “Thursday Night Football” matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals, he suffered a more severe concussion after a hard hit, leading to a frightening scene where his hands curled in a posturing response, a symptom of traumatic brain injury. He was stretchered off the field, prompting immediate calls for his retirement. Despite the severity of the injury, Tagovailoa returned after two weeks but later suffered another concussion in Week 16 against the Green Bay Packers, ending his season. Still, Tagovailoa was committed to returning.
“Every concussion is different, and every player responds differently. He’ll be ready when he and his doctors determine it’s safe,” Rapoport added. “He’s already started consulting concussion specialists, just like in 2022.”
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel has refrained from giving a timeline for Tagovailoa’s return. In the meantime, Miami may explore adding a free-agent quarterback to complement Skylar Thompson and Tim Boyle. McDaniel also downplayed the retirement rumors circulating on social media.
The Dolphins entered the 2024 season optimistic, having watched Tagovailoa complete the 2023 season and sign a lucrative four-year extension. Now, his health takes priority as he works to recover from this third concussion.
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