MIAMI GARDENS, Fla.— Despite calls to contemplate retirement, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa returned to the soccer subject Sunday, enjoying his first sport since he sustained the third concussion of his skilled profession final month.
“I’ve been getting ready for 5 weeks as if I have been to play whereas I used to be on” injured reserve, Tagovailoa mentioned at a information convention after the Dolphins’ loss to the Arizona Cardinals. “So it felt regular coming on the market.”
Before kickoff, Tagovailoa jogged onto the Dolphins’ residence subject to roaring approval from followers six weeks after a terrifying collision with Buffalo Bills security Damar Hamlin, a second that drew nationwide consideration.
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The hit on Sept. 12 led to Tagovailoa’s third confirmed NFL concussion.
While the long-term well being penalties of such accidents are nonetheless unclear, some specialists say his previous head accidents imply he’s at the next threat of one other concussion. Concussions can result in severe long-term results, together with power traumatic encephalopathy.
Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel mentioned at a information convention Friday that Tagovailoa, 26, had consulted with quite a few medical specialists, all of whom didn’t advise towards his return to soccer.
Despite the uncertainties round his well being and the general public stress to rethink, Tagovailoa returned to the sector Sunday and led the Miami Dolphins to a landing on their very first drive, showcasing a intelligent trick cross.
Tagovailoa accomplished 19 passes within the first half — his most in a half since Week 11 of the 2023 season and the seventh time in his profession he has accomplished at the least 19 in a half, in accordance with the Dolphins.
Another notable play got here early within the second half when Tagovailoa ran for 13 yards, securing a primary down earlier than sliding to keep away from a sort out from the Cardinals’ protection. The crowd erupted into cheers, chanting, “Tua, Tua, Tua!”
The Cardinals beat the Dolphins 28-27.
Tagovailoa advised reporters final week he opted to not put on a Guardian Cap, saying it was a “private selection.” The NFL’s high physician mentioned Tagovailoa would achieve minimal profit as a result of he already wears a more recent, extra protecting helmet.
Dolphins followers have been pleased to have their beginning quarterback return from damage.
“I’m glad I got here to this sport,” fan Carson Campbell mentioned.
Another fan, Brandon Derber, mentioned, “If he desires to maintain enjoying soccer, he ought to hold enjoying soccer, so, and I believe truthfully the way in which he is performing, he desires to carry out fairly nicely.”