Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is facing the third diagnosed concussion of his NFL career, with all three occurring in the last two seasons. The injury took place during the Dolphins' recent game against the Buffalo Bills, where Tagovailoa collided with Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin while rushing for a first down. The quarterback initiated the contact by lowering his shoulder instead of sliding, leading to concerns about his well-being.
Following the collision, Tagovailoa displayed signs of a traumatic brain injury and was attended to by medical staff on the field. He was subsequently placed in the NFL's concussion protocol, requiring him to undergo a series of tests and assessments before any potential return to play can be considered. The timeline for his recovery remains uncertain, as each concussion and player's situation is unique.
Tagovailoa's Injury History
Tagovailoa's concussion in the recent game adds to his existing injury history, which includes two concussions in 2022 and one during his college career at Alabama. He has also dealt with rib fractures, a thumb injury, and a fractured middle finger on his throwing hand. In April 2023, he openly discussed the implications of his injuries with his family, raising questions about his long-term health and future in the sport.
Reactions from Players
Former players and analysts have expressed mixed reactions to Tagovailoa's situation, with some urging him to prioritize his long-term health over his football career. Suggestions have been made for the NFL to intervene and consider Tagovailoa's well-being beyond his performance on the field. The sentiment of putting the person before the player has been echoed by several voices in the football community.
Retirement Due to Concussions
Several NFL players have retired due to concerns over concussions, highlighting the serious nature of head injuries in the sport. Notable examples include Luke Kuechly, Frank Wycheck, Jordan Reed, Kylie Fitts, and Chris Borland, who all made the decision to walk away from football at various stages of their careers to prioritize their health.
As Tagovailoa navigates his latest concussion and evaluates his future in the NFL, the conversation around player safety and long-term well-being continues to be a significant topic in the league.
