Former Super Bowl champion gives Tua Tagovailoa harsh reality check after third concussion
Tua Tagovailoa has sustained more injuries than the average NFL quarterback. The 26-year-old's most recent concussion is his third in the past two years. The Miami Dolphins have placed him on Injured Reserve, and he is only slated to return in Week 8 if he clears the necessary concussion protocol tests.
Buffalo Bills DB Damar Hamlin hit Tagovailoa in the third quarter of their Week 2 contest. Following the tackle, the Pro Bowler remained on the ground while players from both teams crouched around him. After he regained footing, Tua was taken to the sidelines for examination. He was ruled out for the remainder of the game due to head injury.
In a recent appearance on The Facility, former Super Bowl Champion Chase Daniel dropped an uncomfortable truth that Tua might not want to hear.
"At the end of the day, you can't put this man back out there. It's just not, it's not good for him because you spend so much time playing the game. You have your whole life in front of you. You have kids, you want to coach your kids. He has two kids, a wife. CTE is a real thing. So it's just, it's tough for me to give any other answer than he should retire."
Daniel said concussions have become a regular issue for Tua. The former NFL quarterback noted that Tagovailloa will likely suffer another concussion once he recovers from his current injury.
"When do you stop? If you put him out there, and he has another concussion this year, It'll be the same exact story next year."
He suggested that Tagovailoa have a long talk with his family and neurologists to gauge his options and make the right career decision, even if it means leaving the glitz and glamor of the NFL.
Mike McDaniel refused to comment on the future of Tua Tagovailoa's career
After learning about Tagovailoa's injury, fans on social media said he should retire. However, when speaking to reporters, Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel stood alongside his QB and refused to comment about Tua's NFL future.
"As far as Tua’s career is concerned, I think it’s an utmost priority of mine for Tua to speak on Tua’s career. Reports are reports. As far as I’m concerned, I’m just worried about the human being and where that’s at day to day. I’ll let Tua be the champion of his own career."
Tua Tagovailoa joined the NFL in 2020. Although the average NFL quarterback's career spans just three years, he has played five professional seasons. It remains uncertain how long his time behind center will last.