Tua Tagovailoa is the man when healthy for the Dolphins, but that has been a major concern. Last season, Tagovailoa suffered a concussion in week two and his former teammate says it could have been avoided.
Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa's former teammate says QB could have avoided near-career-ending concussion originally appeared on The Sporting News
The Miami Dolphins had a forgettable season last year, missing the NFL playoffs. Heading into this season, all eyes are on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. While he is still considered the guy in Miami, concerns are growing that another disappointing year could mark the end of his time with the franchise.
“His contract guarantees his pay through 2026. If the Dolphins fall flat and change coaches, the next coach likely will want a fresh start at quarterback. While the cap charges will complicate a split before 2027, every high-end quarterback contract eventually leads to a big cap charge when the relationship ends. The next coach (and the next G.M., if owner Stephen Ross cleans house) may want to rip the Band-Aid off in one motion,” Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio wrote.
There seems to be a growing lack of confidence in Tagovailoa from within the Dolphins' organization.
“What is interesting is that Miami may not have the same confidence they had in him two years ago. They could have created $19 million in cap room with a simple restructure, but opted not to do so, citing they didn't need the extra money,” Phin Phanatic’s Brian Miller wrote.
Even former Dolphins quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick weighed in during an appearance on The Dive Bar Podcast, highlighting a flaw in Tagovailoa’s decision-making and referencing the concussion he suffered last season.
“Two years ago he played all 17 games, he was healthy. He’s got to know there’s certain hits you can avoid, and the one last year (on TNF), he could’ve avoided it,” Fitzpatrick said. “And he understands that they’re not going to be a good football team if he’s not the one playing quarterback.”
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Fitzpatrick was referring to the frightening moment last season that raised serious concerns about Tagovailoa’s long-term health—sparking debates over whether he should continue playing at all. His comments may have simply been a warning to Tua to protect himself more this year.
Tagovailoa is a talented quarterback, but if he can't stay healthy, one more serious injury could derail not just his season—but his career.
Category: Football
