The Miami Dolphins faithful have reason for cautious optimism as reports emerge that star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is expected to resume practicing in the coming week. The 26-year-old signal caller, who has been sidelined since suffering a concussion in Week 3, has his sights set on a potential Week 8 return against the Arizona Cardinals.
Navigating the NFL’s Concussion Protocol
Tagovailoa’s journey back to the gridiron is not without its challenges. As he remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol, the young quarterback must adhere to the league’s stringent return-to-play provisions. These guidelines, put in place to protect player health and safety, will ultimately determine whether Tua can suit up for the Cardinals matchup.
Despite the scary nature of Tagovailoa’s most recent concussion, which saw his arms fall into the fencing syndrome, sources close to the situation believe he remains committed to returning to the field.
– NFL Insider
A History of Head Injuries
Tagovailoa’s concussion woes are not a new phenomenon. Since entering the league in 2020, the former Alabama standout has endured multiple head injuries, including two diagnosed concussions during the 2022 season alone. A third hit to the head that year led to the NFL revising its concussion reporting policy, underscoring the severity of the issue.
- Diagnosed with two concussions in 2022 season
- Third hit to head in 2022 led to NFL policy change
- Missed four games in 2022 due to concussions
Seeking Medical Expertise
In his quest to return to the field, Tagovailoa has sought the counsel of numerous medical professionals. The quarterback has been spotted visiting neurologists in Pittsburgh, as he has done following previous head injuries. Additionally, he has consulted with new doctors, gathering as much information as possible to make an informed decision about his future in the sport he loves.
Tua has insisted that he feels fine and has been symptom-free shortly after his most recent concussion. Rather than head to the hospital, he chose to remain with his teammates in the locker room, showing few signs of any traumatic episode.
– Source close to Tagovailoa
The Road Ahead
As the Dolphins prepare for their Week 7 clash with the Indianapolis Colts, Tagovailoa will be watching from the sidelines. In his absence, Miami will likely turn to Tyler Huntley, who was signed from the Ravens’ practice squad and started in Week 6 following an injury to backup Skylar Thompson.
While the Dolphins’ coaching staff and medical team will closely monitor Tagovailoa’s progress, there is a growing sense that the young quarterback could be back under center as early as Week 8. Tua has been an active participant in team meetings and has been a presence on the sideline during games, engaging in all team activities except practices and games.
A Franchise Quarterback’s Resolve
For Tagovailoa, the road to recovery is not just about returning to the field; it’s about reclaiming his role as the leader of the Dolphins’ offense. The fifth-year pro has shown flashes of brilliance when healthy, and his teammates have rallied around him during his absence.
Tua is our guy. We know how hard he’s working to get back out there with us, and we can’t wait to have him back in the huddle. His leadership and competitive spirit are infectious.
– Dolphins teammate
As the NFL season marches on, all eyes will be on Miami, eagerly awaiting the return of their franchise quarterback. With medical clearance pending and a critical matchup against the Cardinals on the horizon, Tua Tagovailoa’s comeback story is poised to take center stage in Week 8 and beyond.
Will Tua Tagovailoa’s return be the spark the Dolphins need to turn their season around? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the young quarterback’s resolve and determination have never been stronger.
