Miami Dolphins Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa Suffers Third Concussion, Leaves Game Against Buffalo
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa sustained his third career concussion during Thursday night’s game against the Buffalo Bills. The injury occurred when Tagovailoa collided with Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin, causing him to hit the back of his head against the turf. Tagovailoa left the game immediately, leaving fans and teammates concerned about his future. His absence was keenly felt as the Dolphins struggled to maintain their momentum without their star quarterback.
Player and Coach Responses
Following the game, Tagovailoa was seen in the locker room, interacting with teammates. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed that Tagovailoa spoke with some players before heading home. Tagovailoa, visibly shaken by the incident, expressed his gratitude for the support and reassured everyone that he was doing okay.
“I have a lot of love for Tua,” said backup quarterback Skylar Thompson, who replaced Tagovailoa after the injury. “You care about the person more than the player. Everyone in the organization feels the same. We’re praying for him.”
During a post-game interview, Bills quarterback Josh Allen also expressed concern for Tagovailoa, stating, “He’s a great football player, but he’s an even greater human being. It’s tough. This game has highs and lows, and this is one of the lows.”
Career Success and Injury Struggles
Despite his immense talent, injuries have marred Tagovailoa’s NFL journey. In 2023, he led the Dolphins to the playoffs, throwing 29 touchdowns and a league-best 4,624 yards. His success earned him a four-year, $212 million contract extension, making him one of the NFL’s highest-paid players. However, concussions have been a recurring issue, and this latest one has cast a shadow of uncertainty over his future in the game.
Tagovailoa even considered retiring from football due to concerns about his long-term health. However, he continued playing after exploring methods to protect himself from further injury, including studying jiu-jitsu techniques to fall more safely.
The Impact of Concussion Protocols
The NFL’s concussion protocol was updated after Tagovailoa’s injuries in 2022, requiring players showing signs of disorientation to sit out for the remainder of the game. Despite these measures, Thursday’s incident underscores the ongoing risks for players like Tagovailoa, whose style of play leaves them vulnerable to head injuries. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of player safety in the game of football.
Tagovailoa’s concussion happened on a fourth-down keeper late in the third quarter when he failed to slide and led with his shoulder. As he lay on the field, his hands raised in a fencing response, Dolphins center Aaron Brewer and Bills players immediately signaled for medical attention. Tagovailoa eventually stood up and walked off the field, sharing a brief moment with McDaniel, who embraced him before he departed.
Next Steps and Uncertainty
McDaniel emphasized the importance of focusing on Tagovailoa’s well-being rather than rushing him back to the field. “We’ll have conversations and ensure he gets the appropriate care,” McDaniel said. “I’m just worried about the human being.”
Tagovailoa’s return to football is still undetermined. He will undergo further evaluations, and the team will proceed cautiously with his recovery.
The Dolphins lost the game to Buffalo 31-10, but the more significant concern for the team and fans is the health of their star quarterback and what the future holds for him both on and off the field.