After a month of being sidelined, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is set to return to practice following his third concussion in three seasons. Tagovailoa, who missed four games due to the injury he sustained on September 12, will rejoin the team on October 23, aiming to be back in action for the Dolphins’ game against the Arizona Cardinals on October 27.

Third Concussion and a Long Road Back

Tagovailoa’s most recent injury occurred in a game against the Buffalo Bills on September 12, 2024, during a collision with Damar Hamlin. With just seconds left in the third quarter, Tagovailoa was hit hard and diagnosed with his third concussion. This was a particularly concerning incident, as it was his third in just over a year, prompting many to question his future in the NFL and whether he should return to the field.

In a press conference on October 21, Tagovailoa expressed gratitude for the concern shown for his health, but made it clear that his passion for the game remains unchanged.

“I appreciate your concern, I really do,” he said. “I love this game and I love it to the death of me. That’s it.”

Despite the risks associated with multiple concussions, Tagovailoa emphasized his determination to return. He mentioned that his decision to get back on the field wasn’t influenced by outside opinions, saying he had only discussed the matter with his wife.

Cleared to Play

While many may be concerned for Tagovailoa’s safety, Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel confirmed that medical professionals had “deemed it safe” for the quarterback to return to football. It was not an easy road, but after thorough evaluations, the experts cleared him to resume play.

“No one’s sort of advice affected anything that I thought in terms of returning,” Tagovailoa shared. “I had some conversations with my wife, but that was it.”

Tagovailoa’s comeback is one of the most anticipated in the league. However, the risk of further injury, especially in such a contact-heavy sport, looms large.

Personal Choices and Playing the Odds

Interestingly, Tagovailoa has decided not to wear a guardian cap, which is an extra layer of padding over the helmet that many players are now opting for to reduce head injury risks. When asked about it, he called it a “personal choice,” adding, “I’m willing to play the odds.”

While the decision not to wear the additional protection raised eyebrows, Tagovailoa seems firm in his belief that he is ready to handle whatever comes next.

This decision is particularly striking given his recent history with head injuries. His first diagnosed concussion came in a September 2022 game against the Buffalo Bills, causing him to miss five games. His second concussion followed three months later on December 25, during a matchup with the Green Bay Packers. Each injury added to the growing concern about his long-term health, yet Tagovailoa remains undeterred.

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The Importance of Rest and Recovery

Reflecting on his time on injured reserve, Tagovailoa expressed understanding of the team’s decision to sideline him.

“I think the team did what was best in the interest of me, knowing that I’m a competitor,” he said.

Given what the doctors advised him—recommending a substantial amount of time to rest and recover—Tagovailoa agreed that this was the right move to protect him from further harm.

“They did what was best in terms of protecting myself from myself,” he explained.

It’s clear that while Tagovailoa is eager to get back to the game he loves, he recognizes the importance of allowing his body the time it needs to heal properly.

Addressing the Risks of Future Brain Injury

Concussions are no joke, and repeated head injuries can lead to serious long-term health issues, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). When asked about the dangers of returning to football after multiple concussions, Tagovailoa acknowledged the risks, but remained resolute.

“There’s just a gray area when it comes to that,” he said, speaking about the potential for further brain injury.

“For me, this is what I love to do, this is what makes me happy and I’m gonna do it. That’s it.”

Coach McDaniel’s Thoughts

Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel expressed his belief that Tagovailoa now has a better understanding of his responsibilities, not just to himself but to the team and the organization as a whole.

“I think he has a better understanding of his responsibility towards the entire organization at this point,” McDaniel said. “Part of that is protecting yourself. He has to be able to protect himself…he needs to be smart about how he engages in contact.”

Conclusion

As Tua Tagovailoa prepares to step back onto the field, his return is a mix of excitement and concern. His passion for the game is undeniable, but with three concussions in just over a year, the risks are higher than ever.

While the medical experts have given him the green light, only time will tell if Tagovailoa’s decision to continue playing will prove wise. For now, he remains focused on what he loves most—football—and is ready to take on whatever comes next.