The Miami Dolphins received a major boost on Friday with the announcement that star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has cleared concussion protocol. After missing the past four games following his third documented concussion of the season, the dynamic signal-caller is now set to return under center for Sunday’s crucial matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
Tua’s Turbulent 2024 Season
Tagovailoa, who led the league in passer rating just a season ago, has endured a rollercoaster campaign thus far in 2024. The former Alabama standout suffered his latest concussion during a Week 1 loss to the division-rival Buffalo Bills, leading to his placement on injured reserve five days later.
Despite being symptom-free since September 13th, the Dolphins opted for a cautious approach with their franchise quarterback. As head coach Mike McDaniel noted, the decision to sideline Tua was made to “protect him from himself” as he consulted with several top medical experts across the country.
“Zero of them recommended retirement. It was a decision Tua made with his doctors and family, and he did not consider retiring.”
– Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel
Dolphins Offensive Woes Mount in Tua’s Absence
Without their electric playmaker under center, the Dolphins have struggled mightily on offense. The team has lost three of its four games sans Tagovailoa, plummeting to a 2-4 record and the cellar of the AFC East standings. Heading into Week 7, Miami ranks dead last in the NFL in scoring offense.
The connection between Tagovailoa and head coach Mike McDaniel has been sorely missed. Star wide receiver Tyreek Hill emphasized the special bond the tandem shares and how it unlocks the potential of the Dolphins’ attack.
“Tua — him and Mike, they’ve got this real special connection. He allows Tua to be Tua. The connection is there. Then when you bring that all on the field, it magnifies everything that we do — throws are on time, play calling, the operation is faster.”
– Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill
Reinforcements Arriving for Pivotal Stretch
In addition to Tagovailoa’s return, Miami is set to welcome back two key defensive starters in safety Jevon Holland and linebacker Emmanuel Ogbah. However, the secondary will still be shorthanded with cornerback Kader Kohou ruled out for Sunday, while defensive tackle Zach Sieler will also miss the contest.
The Dolphins find themselves in desperate need of a spark as they approach the midway point of the 2024 season. With a suddenly wide-open AFC East and a remaining schedule that softens considerably after a brutal opening slate, Tua’s return could be the catalyst that rights the ship in South Beach.
A Chance for Redemption in the Desert
Sunday’s matchup with the Cardinals provides Tagovailoa and the Dolphins a golden opportunity to get back on track. Arizona has endured its own struggles, limping to a 1-5 start amid the continued absence of franchise QB Kyler Murray. If Tua can recapture his 2023 form, Miami has a prime chance to secure a much-needed victory.
As the pressure mounts on the Dolphins to salvage their once-promising season, all eyes will be on Tua Tagovailoa as he makes his long-awaited return to the gridiron. With the hopes of a franchise and its fanbase resting squarely on his shoulders, the stage is set for the young quarterback to remind the football world just how special he can be. For Miami, the road to redemption begins now.
