After an intense week for Miami Dolphins fans, head coach Mike McDaniel addressed the burning question of whether quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will be back on the field soon.
The anticipation surrounding Tagovailoa’s return has been heightened since he suffered a concussion during the Dolphins’ game against the Buffalo Bills last month, marking the third significant head injury of his NFL career.
The Concerning Incident
During the Week 2 matchup, Tagovailoa took a hard hit from Damar Hamlin and fell awkwardly, leading to a frightening moment where he appeared to show signs of a “fencing response,” a reaction often associated with concussions.
This incident has reignited debates about his safety, especially since Tagovailoa has a history of head injuries dating back to 2022.
Following the hit, many fans and analysts voiced concerns on social media, suggesting he might need to consider retirement for his long-term health.
McDaniel’s Encouraging News
Despite the heightened worries, McDaniel provided a glimmer of hope, indicating that Tagovailoa could return to play before the year ends.
The coach confirmed that Tagovailoa not only aims to come back but is also expected to be active in 2024.
Currently, he remains on Injured Reserve, missing three games and set to sit out at least one more.
However, there’s good news: he’s eligible to start practicing again on October 23, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport.
Upcoming Game and Expectations
The Dolphins are gearing up to face the Indianapolis Colts after a bye week, but McDaniel made it clear that Tagovailoa won’t be making his comeback at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Fans should anticipate his return later in the season, as the quarterback continues to consult with medical experts on his recovery process.
Dolphins’ Performance Without Tua
The Dolphins have struggled in Tagovailoa’s absence, winning just one out of three games.
Their narrow victory against the New England Patriots was led by backup Tyler Huntley, who stepped in during this challenging time.
Tagovailoa’s situation is concerning, especially given his past injuries.
He first sustained a concussion during the 2022 season, which was marred by multiple incidents.
In Week 3, he was knocked down in a brutal tackle and exhibited symptoms that led to further scrutiny of the NFL’s concussion protocols.
Calls for Caution from Former Players
In light of these developments, the conversation around Tagovailoa’s future has intensified, with many former players urging him to prioritize his health.
Dez Bryant was particularly vocal on social media, emphasizing that Tagovailoa has experienced too many concussions and should think about retiring for his overall well-being.
NFL legend Shannon Sharpe echoed this sentiment, expressing his hope for Tagovailoa’s safety and suggesting that he consider stepping back from the game.
Additionally, Manti Te’o, a close friend and former NFL player, tearfully urged him to make the right decision regarding his future.
McDaniel’s Stance on Retirement
While many are advocating for Tagovailoa to prioritize his health, McDaniel has consistently avoided discussing the possibility of retirement, insisting that such a decision rests solely with the player.
As the Dolphins navigate this tumultuous period, fans will be anxiously awaiting updates on Tagovailoa’s recovery and potential return to the gridiron.
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