Tua Tagovailoa Suffers Another Concussion During NFL Game

Concern Over Tua Tagovailoa’s Health

Tua Tagovailoa has faced another serious concussion during a matchup against the Buffalo Bills, leaving fans worried about his future in the NFL. The 26-year-old quarterback struggled to get up after a hard hit from Damar Hamlin in the third quarter, signaling his need for assistance to his teammates.

Impact on Game and Team

Despite his effort, the Dolphins fell to the Bills with a score of 10:31. This injury marks Tagovailoa's third officially reported concussion in just his fifth NFL season. Coach Mike McDaniel shared his emotions, stating, “You never want to see something like this happen.”

Addressing Concussion Protocols

Tagovailoa had previously expressed thoughts about stepping away from professional football due to concussions but chose to continue playing. He underwent Jiu-Jitsu training to mitigate the risk of head injuries through better falling techniques. As 2023 progressed, Tua demonstrated his abilities by leading his team into the playoffs and securing a lucrative four-year contract worth 212 million dollars.

While McDaniel confirmed that a thorough evaluation of Tagovailoa's condition is underway, the timeline for his return remains uncertain. Dolphins' backup quarterback Skylar Thompson voiced his support, stating, “I pray for Tua and hope everything turns out well.”

The NFL's Response

The NFL has approved new helmet models intended to offer better protection against concussions, and players now have the option to wear additional padding during training. However, many, including Tagovailoa, opted out of wearing the Guardian Cap during games. Buffalo's quarterback Josh Allen also extended his sympathies, highlighting the challenges and risks associated with football.