Once again, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa finds himself sidelined due to a concussion, marking the third such injury of his NFL career. Despite these setbacks, Tagovailoa's resolve to continue his career remains unwavering, a sentiment strongly echoed by the Dolphins organization.
The Dolphins have made it abundantly clear that Tagovailoa is their long-term solution at quarterback. Miami is not considering trading for another signal-caller, as they believe in Tua's abilities and potential to lead the team. This confidence is further highlighted by Tagovailoa's recent four-year, $212.4 million contract extension, which includes $167.2 million in guaranteed money, with $93.2 million fully guaranteed at signing. This substantial investment signals the organization's commitment to their quarterback.
Injury Timeline
Tagovailoa's latest concussion occurred in Week 2 during a game against the Buffalo Bills. Following this, he was placed on injured reserve in Week 3, sidelining him until at least Week 7. As part of his recovery process, Tagovailoa is scheduled to visit with a neurologist this week to determine the full extent of his injury. Notably, reports suggest that Tagovailoa "feels fine" nearly a couple of weeks after the incident, providing a glimmer of hope for his timely return.
Impact on the Team
Under head coach Mike McDaniel, the Dolphins have an impressive 20-11 record in games that Tagovailoa starts and finishes. However, the team's performance significantly dips in his absence, managing only a 1-7 record when Tagovailoa is either absent or exits early. This stark contrast underscores the pivotal role Tagovailoa plays in the team's success and highlights the importance of his health to Miami's aspirations this season.
Despite his current setback, Tagovailoa remains determined to return to action this season and has expressed a strong desire to play again in 2024. This determination, coupled with the Dolphins' faith in him, paints a picture of a promising future for both the quarterback and the team.
Looking Ahead
The Dolphins' season hinges significantly on Tagovailoa's recovery and his ability to stay injury-free upon his return. The team's current strategy does not involve seeking another quarterback option, demonstrating their belief in Tagovailoa's talent and potential. His return could potentially reignite the Dolphins' playoff hopes, particularly given his track record of success when healthy.
As Tua Tagovailoa prepares for his upcoming medical evaluations, both he and the Dolphins are hopeful for a positive prognosis. His recovery and future performances will be crucial not only for his career but also for the Miami Dolphins’ pursuit of championship success. The fans and the organization alike eagerly await his return, ready to support him through this challenging phase of his career.