Tua Tagovailoa is set to return to the field this Sunday to play against the Arizona Cardinals. The Miami Dolphins quarterback has been at the center of discussions surrounding concussions for nearly two years. He experienced a concussion while playing college football at Alabama in 2019, followed by two diagnosed concussions in 2022. Just a week before one of these concussions, Tagovailoa showed signs of distress during a game, but the Dolphins’ medical team did not recognize a concussion, allowing him to continue playing. This controversial decision led to changes in NFL policies. Recently, Tagovailoa suffered another concussion, marking at least his fourth in the past six years.
Since this latest incident, few have contested that the decision for Tagovailoa to return lies with him. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel emphasized his support for Tagovailoa’s well-being rather than pressuring him to play. This week, Tagovailoa successfully passed the NFL’s concussion protocols and is preparing to return to practice after being placed on injured reserve, which required him to miss a minimum of four games. He acknowledged the team’s cautious approach in protecting him.
Given his competitive nature, it was expected that Tagovailoa would return to the field as soon as he was able. His history of discipline from his father during his youth has shaped his approach to the game, although some may view this upbringing differently. Tagovailoa has consistently shown a willingness to face physical challenges on the field.
While his return was anticipated, his recent press conference provided insight into his mindset. Tagovailoa openly addressed concerns regarding his safety. When asked what he would say to those who worry about him, he expressed gratitude for their concern, stating his passion for the game of football.
However, his comments raised alarms about his understanding of the risks involved. Tagovailoa seems to acknowledge the potential dangers of football but also minimizes the seriousness of head injuries and concussions. He does not owe others a decision about his career, but there is an expectation for him to properly convey the gravity of concussions and their long-term implications for athletes.
During the press conference, he suggested that perceptions about concussions arose largely due to his own experiences, describing the attention around the issue as a recent phenomenon. He pointed out that other sports, such as boxing and hockey, are not scrutinized in the same way, illustrating a misunderstanding of how awareness of head injuries has evolved.
Tagovailoa’s responses provided a way for the NFL to maintain its narrative about player safety. He spoke of the uncertainty surrounding the long-term effects of concussions, hinting at the ongoing debate among medical professionals about their consequences. While it is valid to recognize this debate, understanding the risks associated with repeated head injuries is not debatable.
He appeared to downplay the dangers associated with returning to play after suffering multiple concussions, likening it to everyday risks, such as driving to work. This analogy overlooks the significantly higher risks associated with playing quarterback in the NFL.
How Tagovailoa chooses to protect himself upon his return is ultimately his decision. He opted not to wear a guardian cap, designed to reduce concussion risks, describing it as a personal choice. While he aims to play intelligently to remain available for his team, his recent concussion occurred during a running play when he collided with a defender.
The public is left hoping for Tagovailoa’s safety and well-being as he returns to the sport he loves. While he is not obligated to heed external opinions on his career, his remarks hold considerable influence over the attitudes of fans and young athletes regarding head injuries. It is crucial that his narrative addresses not just his individual experiences but also the broader implications of concussion risks for all athletes.