Tagovailoa Faces Another Concussion: What We Know About the Situation

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Tua Tagovailoa has been diagnosed with his third concussion in the NFL, all occurring within a span of just two years.

This incident raises significant concerns about not only his immediate health but also his future in the sport.

The Miami Dolphins quarterback was injured during the team’s 31-10 defeat against the Buffalo Bills on a play where he collided with defensive back Damar Hamlin. Tagovailoa, attempting to gain a first down, initiated the contact by lowering his shoulder rather than opting to slide, which is a common maneuver for quarterbacks to avoid hits.

Immediately, players from both teams signaled for medical help as Tagovailoa lay on the field, showing signs often associated with a concussion. After a few minutes, he managed to get to his feet and walked off toward the sideline during the third quarter.

Shortly thereafter, he made his way to the tunnel, turning to look at the stands with a smile before heading to the locker room. It took little time for the Dolphins to announce he would not return to the game.

As the situation developed, it became evident that Tagovailoa had sustained a concussion. The Dolphins began a detailed evaluation process on Friday, although no timeline has been disclosed for a potential recovery.

Currently, he has entered the NFL’s concussion protocol, which requires him to successfully pass a series of tests and assessments before he can consider returning to the field. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel confirmed that the team would be signing another quarterback to prepare for Tagovailoa’s absence.

The NFL states that each concussion is unique, meaning there is no set timeframe for recovery or the steps that must be followed in the graduated exertion program. Recovery will differ from player to player.

Tagovailoa has a history of head injuries. He was previously diagnosed with two concussions in 2022 and had one while playing at Alabama.

His injury history extends beyond concussions. During his college career, he underwent a procedure for a high ankle sprain in October 2019 and suffered a dislocated hip against Mississippi State, which prematurely ended his time at Alabama.

In his professional career, Tagovailoa has dealt with multiple injuries, including rib fractures, a thumb injury, and a fractured middle finger on his throwing hand, in addition to his concussions.

Earlier this year, Tagovailoa revealed that he and his family discussed the implications of continuing his football career after suffering two concussions in 2022.

The reactions from former players about Tagovailoa’s situation have varied. Many analysts suggest he should seriously consider the impact of repeated concussions on his long-term health.

Former linebacker Manti Te’o, who considers Tagovailoa like a younger brother, expressed his hope that Tagovailoa would leave the game after the concussion he suffered against the Bengals in 2022. Te’o reflected on the emotional toll it takes on players’ families, emphasizing the importance of considering life beyond football.

“After he suffered the one against the Bengals, I wanted him to walk away,” Te’o said on NFL Network. “What people have to understand is this is just a game. And then there’s life.”

Former quarterback Robert Griffin III echoed this sentiment on social media, urging others to prioritize Tagovailoa’s well-being as a person over his role as a player.

Former NFL receiver Dez Bryant was more direct, commanding the league to take action for Tagovailoa’s health. “Tua has had entirely too many concussions; he needs to retire for his longevity health concerns,” Bryant stated in his post.

This perspective was shared by Las Vegas Raiders coach Antonio Pierce, who emphasized the need for Tagovailoa to focus on his family and not to take unnecessary risks with his health.

McDaniel reiterated his primary concern is for Tagovailoa’s recovery and did not engage in speculation regarding his future. Tagovailoa has a four-year, $212 million extension set to begin in the 2025 season.

Concerns surrounding player health have led to several notable retirements over concussion issues. Former Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly, at just 28 years old, decided to retire after experiencing three concussions over three seasons and has since advocated for player safety.

Likewise, Frank Wycheck, a star for the Tennessee Titans, walked away after 11 seasons due to lingering effects from multiple concussions. Jordan Reed retired at 30 after seven seasons, and Kylie Fitts made a similar choice at 27, all citing safety concerns due to head trauma.

Chris Borland, who retired at 24 after only one season, also voiced concerns about head injury risks and is a reminder of the serious implications of playing the sport.