When Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered the third concussion of his NFL career, concerns about his future health and career began to surface. However, despite the setbacks, Tagovailoa’s determination to continue his NFL journey remains steadfast. The Miami Dolphins organization has also made it unequivocally clear that they see Tagovailoa as their long-term solution at the quarterback position, unwavering in their support and commitment to his recovery and success.
Commitment from the Dolphins
Earlier this offseason, the Dolphins solidified their faith in Tagovailoa by signing him to a substantial four-year, $212.4 million contract extension. This deal includes $167.2 million in guaranteed money, with $93.2 million of that fully guaranteed at signing. Such an investment signals the team's belief not only in Tagovailoa’s talent but also in his resilience and potential to lead the Dolphins in future seasons. The Dolphins' decision to refrain from seeking another quarterback further underscores their confidence in Tagovailoa's abilities and recovery process.
Impact of Concussions
Tagovailoa's latest concussion has undoubtedly impacted the team’s performance. After sustaining the injury in Week 2 against the Buffalo Bills, he was placed on injured reserve in Week 3, sidelining him until at least Week 7. Despite these setbacks, reports from ESPN suggest that Tagovailoa "feels fine" nearly a couple of weeks removed from the incident. The quarterback is also scheduled to visit with a neurologist this week to assess the full extent of his injury and plan his path forward.
Historically, Tagovailoa’s presence on the field has been a critical factor in the Dolphins' success. Under head coach Mike McDaniel, the team boasts an impressive 20-11 record in games where Tagovailoa starts and finishes. In stark contrast, the Dolphins have struggled significantly without their starting quarterback, managing only a 1-7 record in games where Tagovailoa is either absent or exits early. This stark difference underscores Tagovailoa’s value and influence on the team's overall performance.
Tua's Determination
Despite the challenges and risks associated with multiple concussions, Tagovailoa remains resolute in his commitment to the NFL. He has expressed a clear intention to return to action this season and has even voiced a desire to extend his career into 2024. This determination and resolve are noteworthy, as they highlight Tagovailoa's passion for the game and his unwillingness to let injuries dictate the course of his career.
As Tagovailoa works towards his return, the Dolphins and their fans remain hopeful for his full recovery and eagerly anticipate his return to the field. The organization's continued support and significant financial investment in Tagovailoa signal a strong belief in his capabilities and potential to lead the team to future successes.
While the road to recovery may be challenging, Tagovailoa's resilience and commitment to football serve as both an inspiration to his teammates and a testament to his character. The Miami Dolphins, standing firmly behind their quarterback, await the day he rejoins them on the gridiron, ready to steer the team towards new heights.