When Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered the third concussion of his NFL career, the incident raised significant concerns for both the player and the team. However, Tagovailoa remains steadfast in his commitment to continue his career in the NFL despite the injury setbacks.
Dolphins' Commitment to Tagovailoa
The Miami Dolphins see Tagovailoa as their long-term solution at quarterback, a belief strongly reflected in their recent actions. Earlier this offseason, the Dolphins signed the 25-year-old to a lucrative four-year, $212.4 million contract extension. The deal includes a substantial $167.2 million guaranteed, with $93.2 million fully guaranteed at signing, signaling a formidable vote of confidence from the organization.
Tagovailoa's commitment to returning to form is evident. He "feels fine" nearly a couple of weeks after his latest concussion, according to reports from ESPN. Despite his current challenges, he remains determined to return to action this season and has even expressed his desire to continue playing into 2024.
The Current Season's Setback
Unfortunately for Tagovailoa and the Dolphins, his recent Week 2 concussion against the Buffalo Bills resulted in him being sidelined until at least Week 7. Following this injury, the Dolphins placed him on injured reserve in Week 3. The current priority for the team and the player is to ensure his complete recovery; he is set to visit a neurologist this week to ascertain the full extent of his injury.
The Dolphins, under head coach Mike McDaniel, have a striking 20-11 record in games that Tagovailoa starts and finishes. However, the team struggles without their star quarterback, evidenced by a dismal 1-7 record in games where Tagovailoa is absent or has to leave early. This contrast underscores the pivotal role that Tagovailoa plays in the team’s success.
Looking Ahead
Despite the temporary setback, Miami is not in the market for another quarterback, standing firm in their commitment to Tagovailoa. Both the player and the organization are focused on his recovery and return to the field. His resilience and determination to overcome these hurdles are critical to both his personal career and the team’s future aspirations.
The Dolphins' investment in Tua Tagovailoa underscores their belief in his abilities and potential. As he navigates his recovery with an unwavering commitment to the sport, all eyes will be on how he bounces back from this latest challenge. The Dolphins, their fans, and the entire NFL community share a vested interest in Tagovailoa’s return, eagerly anticipating the day he steps back into his leadership role on the field.