Dr. Bennet Omalu, renowned for discovering chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in former football players, has once again urged Tua Tagovailoa to consider retiring from the NFL.
This plea follows a concerning event where the 26-year-old quarterback suffered his third concussion of the season after a collision with Damar Hamlin in the Miami Dolphins’ recent 31-10 defeat to the Buffalo Bills.
A Dire Warning from Omalu
In an interview with TMZ Sports, Dr. Omalu emphasized the severe risks involved, suggesting that further brain injury could leave Tagovailoa “permanently incapacitated.”
He expressed deep concern, saying, “If I were his family—whether his brother, father, or even a cousin—I would strongly urge him to retire and find another path.”
Dr. Omalu, whose life and work were portrayed by Will Smith in the 2015 film Concussion, made a similar call for Tagovailoa’s retirement two years ago, after the quarterback was stretchered off the field following a concussion against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Omalu has consistently warned that no amount of money is worth risking one’s health, stating, “Sometimes money is not more valuable than human life. $20 billion is not worth more than your brain.”
Social Media Reactions and Public Concern
Following the recent collision, former NFL star Dez Bryant took to social media, urging Tagovailoa to retire for his own well-being and that of his family.
This sentiment was echoed by ESPN’s Elle Duncan and various sports commentators like Shannon Sharpe, Nick Wright, and Ryan Clark, who also voiced their concerns.
Calls for Action from the Dolphins and NFL
Dr. Omalu has not only appealed to Tagovailoa but also to the Miami Dolphins and the NFL to take responsibility in protecting the quarterback from further harm.
He questioned the decision to let Tagovailoa return to play, highlighting the significant risk of “catastrophic and permanent brain damage.”
Miami Dolphins Coach’s Perspective
Meanwhile, Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel has left the decision about Tagovailoa’s future in his hands.
McDaniel admitted uncertainty about when or if the quarterback will return to the field.
He emphasized that focusing on Tagovailoa’s career at this point is less important than considering his overall well-being.
“It’s more about caring for the human being,” McDaniel explained.
“Bringing up his future right now is not in his best interest.
I urge everyone who genuinely cares to focus on his health above all else.”
What’s next for Tua Tagovailoa and his career remains uncertain as discussions continue and decisions are made.