Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa
That was the third concussion diagnosis this season for Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, whose health and long-term NFL future were again called into question Thursday night against the Buffalo Bills, whom the Dolphins lost to 31-10.
The injury occurred in the third quarter when Tagovailoa scrambled for a first down and collided with Bills safety Damar Hamlin. Helmet-to-forearm contact was made. Immediately after the hit, Tagovailoa showed a “fencing response,” a classic indicator of concussion, lying motionless as medical staff rushed to his side. After being treated on the field for a few minutes, Tagovailoa was able to walk to the locker room under his own power but was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Afterward, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel said following the game, “We’re taking things one day at a time. The priority now is making sure that Tua is all right, not projecting on any timeline for him to come back.”
The 25-year-old quarterback has had an alarming concussion history, with this being his fourth documented concussion since college at Alabama. Last season, the NFL and NFL Players Association opened an investigation after a series of head injuries kept Tagovailoa out of a stretch of games amid controversy over the handling of his case.
Yet, after this latest considering he has done everything to recover and build his strength throughout the offseason speculation about whether the young quarterback should medically retire started. Dolphins offensive lineman Austin Jackson was on the field when it happened and pretty much spoke for the entire team: “It’s crushing to see him go down again, especially with his history.”
While fans and analysts speculate about his future, Tagovailoa has not said anything about possible retirement. Making the whole scenario somewhat complicated is his four-year, $212.4 million contract extension with the Dolphins just lately. If medically forced into retirement, the Dolphins will still be obligated to a good chunk of the guaranteed money-about $124 million.
In the interim, with further examinations forthcoming, Thompson, the backup quarterback, finished the game in relief. If Tagovailoa does not play in Week 3, Thompson will likely start in his place. Coach McDaniel said, “We’ve seen Skylar rise to the occasion before, and the team believes in him.”
Meanwhile, during this period of recuperation for Tagovailoa, the entire NFL community sends its best. Bills quarterback Josh Allen, who has consistently matched up against Tagovailoa, spoke to NFL.com, “He’s an even better person than a player. We’re all hoping for the best for him and his family.”
For now, all attention is on Tua’s health and well-being while his on-field future hangs in uncertainty as medical reports continue.
To Read More: Click Here
Jawad Shah