Tua Tagovailoa Set to Return for Miami Dolphins: Eyes on Comeback Against Cardinals

The Miami Dolphins and their fans are buzzing with anticipation as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is set to make his much-awaited return this Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals. This excitement follows the news that medical experts have cleared him to practice after his latest concussion. Head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed on Monday that Tagovailoa will participate in practice on Wednesday, with plans to start him in Sunday’s home game if all goes smoothly.

Cleared for Return

“Following the directive and opinion of medical experts, he’s coming back now because the medical experts have deemed it safe for him to return,” McDaniel explained. “I don’t mess with timelines or try to overcook the forecast. You lean on experts for career matters, and that’s what we’re doing here.”

The Dolphins (2-4) are placing their hopes on Tagovailoa’s return to ignite a turnaround for the team, which has struggled since his injury in Week 2. His return could be the catalyst for change that the Dolphins need to bounce back in the season.

Injury Details

Tagovailoa was injured during a game against the Buffalo Bills after a collision with defensive back Damar Hamlin. In a bold move, Tagovailoa ran for a first down but lowered his shoulder into Hamlin instead of sliding, leading to the injury. This marked another head injury in his career, with two concussions already diagnosed in 2022, which led to changes in the NFL’s concussion protocols.

“I think he has a better understanding of his responsibility to the whole organization at this point,” McDaniel said, emphasizing how Tagovailoa’s approach to his health has evolved, considering the risks involved.

Quarterback Shuffle in Tua’s Absence

Without Tagovailoa, the Dolphins have faced challenges maintaining consistency at the quarterback position. Skylar Thompson initially replaced him in the Buffalo game and started Week 3, but a rib injury sidelined him. Tyler Huntley took over, going 1-1 as a starter, but he also suffered an injury during Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts. Tim Boyle finished the game for Miami.

With Tagovailoa’s potential return, the Dolphins are hopeful that his presence will stabilize the team and pave the way for success in the second half of the season.

As the Dolphins monitor Tagovailoa’s progress in practice, all eyes remain on him as the team strives to regain its footing in the 2024 NFL season.