Once Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered the third concussion of his NFL career, concerns loomed over his future in the sport. Despite this setback, Tagovailoa has made it clear that he remains steadfast in his commitment to continuing his career in the NFL. The Dolphins organization echoes this sentiment, viewing Tagovailoa as their long-term answer at quarterback.
Commitment Amid Adversity
The latest injury has sidelined Tagovailoa until at least Week 7 of the current season. The Dolphins placed their star quarterback on injured reserve back in Week 3, following a Week 2 concussion against the Buffalo Bills. Despite the severity and frequency of his head injuries, Tagovailoa's determination to return to the field remains unshaken. Reports indicate that he "feels fine" nearly a couple of weeks removed from the incident and is set to visit with a neurologist this week to assess the full extent of his condition.
Backing Their Franchise Player
Under the leadership of head coach Mike McDaniel, the Dolphins have proven to be fiercely competitive with Tagovailoa under center. The team boasts a remarkable 20-11 record in games where Tagovailoa starts and finishes. Conversely, the contrast is stark when he is absent or exits early, with the Dolphins managing a dismal 1-7 record in such scenarios. This stark difference underscores Tagovailoa's pivotal role in the team's success.
Demonstrating their confidence in him, the Dolphins signed Tagovailoa to a lucrative four-year, $212.4 million contract extension earlier this offseason. The deal includes $167.2 million guaranteed, with $93.2 million fully guaranteed at signing. This substantial investment highlights the organization's unwavering belief in Tagovailoa as their franchise quarterback and their commitment to building around him for the foreseeable future.
Looking Ahead
The Dolphins have no intention of seeking a trade for another signal-caller, a clear indication of their trust in Tagovailoa's ability to overcome his health challenges and lead the team. Tagovailoa remains determined to return to action this season and has also expressed a desire to play again in 2024. This resilience is indicative of both his personal grit and the faith the organization places in his capability to bounce back.
As Tagovailoa prepares for his neurologist visit this week, the Dolphins and their fans eagerly await positive news. His recovery will not only influence the team's current season trajectory but also shape the future dynamics of an organization that has unequivocally tied its fortunes to his leadership and talent. Whether Tagovailoa can reclaim his health and form will be a decisive factor in Miami's quest for success in the highly competitive landscape of the NFL.