After being sidelined due to a concussion since Week 2, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa returned to practice on Wednesday, sparking hope for his potential start against the Arizona Cardinals this Sunday. Tagovailoa's participation in practice marks a significant step in his recovery process, although he still needs to clear the final stages of the NFL's concussion protocol.
Throughout his absence, Tagovailoa underwent evaluations by medical experts specializing in head injuries, who ultimately deemed it safe for him to resume football activities. Despite his history of concussions, Tagovailoa expressed his love for the game and his commitment to playing smart and safe moving forward.
One notable aspect of Tagovailoa's return is his decision not to wear a Guardian Cap, opting instead for a quarterback-specific helmet designed to reduce head injuries. This choice reflects his personal approach to safety while on the field.
Reflecting on past incidents that raised concerns about his health, Tagovailoa acknowledged the need to be cautious and make smarter decisions during gameplay. His teammates have emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary hits, urging him to prioritize his well-being by sliding to minimize contact.
Despite the Dolphins' offensive struggles in Tagovailoa's absence, the team remains optimistic about his potential impact on their performance. With impressive statistics from the previous season, including high passing and scoring averages, Tagovailoa's presence is seen as a crucial factor in the team's success.
As Tagovailoa continues his recovery and prepares for a potential return to the field, the Dolphins have made roster adjustments, signing quarterback C.J. Beathard and wide receiver Tarik Black to the practice squad. The team is closely monitoring the situation and evaluating backup options based on the performances of the available quarterbacks in practice.
While Tagovailoa's status for Sunday's game remains uncertain pending protocol clearance, his teammates and coaches are hopeful for his return and the positive impact he can bring to the team's performance.
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