Former No. 2 Overall Pick Issues Stern Reminder To Miami Dolphins Amid Tua Tagovailoa’s Head Injury

September 16, 2024

Miami Dolphins, Tua Tagovailoa

Just recently, Tua Tagovailoa experienced another setback to his career after sustaining a concussion. This led two-time Super Bowl champion Chris Long to issue a stern reminder to the Miami Dolphins about the quarterback’s status.

In a challenging game against the Buffalo Bills, Tagovailoa exited with a concussion, marking the third such incident in his NFL career. The injury occurred during the third quarter when Tagovailoa scrambled for a first down and collided his helmet with Bills safety Damar Hamlin’s forearm.

USATSI 21935212 168400517 lowres
Nov 19, 2023; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) attempts a pass against the Las Vegas Raiders during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Following the hit, he exhibited a fencing response, prompting medical staff to attend to him for several minutes. Although he was able to walk off the field, he was ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel reported that Tagovailoa was in good spirits but emphasized the importance of a thorough evaluation before discussing any potential return timeline. Skylar Thompson stepped in as the quarterback for the remainder of the game and is likely to start if Tagovailoa is unable to play in the upcoming matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. McDaniel expressed confidence in Thompson’s abilities, recalling his strong performances from the previous season.

Two-Time Super Bowl Champ Chris Long Reminds Miami Dolphins of Tua Tagovailoa’s Head Injury

NFL, Chris Long
Feb 2, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Walter Payton NFL Man Of The Year winner Chris Long of the Philadelphia Eagles during media availabilities for the NFL Honors show at the Fox Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Having one too many concussions can have serious repercussions on the body, as reminded by Long. This detail was highlighted in an episode of Green Light With Chris Long, a production of Yote House Media.

“I hope the Dolphins are really good about this. Because you paid him knowing that he has a history.”

Tagovailoa is not considering retirement following his recent concussion. He plans to consult with neurologists to assess his condition before making any decisions about his football career. After suffering a head injury in a game against the Bills, the Dolphins quarterback is focusing on recovery and will prioritize his health before returning to the field.

USATSI 24215990 168400517 lowres scaled
Sep 12, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) warms up prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images

Tagovailoa’s history with head injuries has raised significant concern among fans and analysts alike. In 2022, he faced scrutiny after two notable concussions, leading to discussions about his long-term safety in the sport. McDaniel reassured that each situation would be treated with care, focusing on Tagovailoa’s health as the priority. The Dolphins will continue to monitor his condition closely in the coming days.

Miami Dolphins, Tua Tagovailoa
Nov 19, 2023; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) scrambles with the ball against the Las Vegas Raiders during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports