MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Tua Tagovailoa, the quarterback for Miami, has successfully passed the NFL’s concussion protocol and is set to return to the field against the Arizona Cardinals this Sunday. This marks his first start since he suffered a concussion in Week 2 of the season.
The Dolphins announced Tagovailoa’s return to practice on Monday, after he was placed on injured reserve for around a month due to his third concussion since entering the league on September 12. Following extensive consultations with various medical professionals, the team has confirmed that he is deemed fit to resume playing football. His return is contingent upon passing the NFL’s five-phase process for returning to play, which he achieved after participating in practices and engaging in contact without displaying any concussion symptoms.
After Thursday’s practice, an independent neurological consultant conducted an examination and cleared Tagovailoa to compete this weekend, according to comments made by head coach Mike McDaniel. “Words can’t express how thrilled I am for all players who seize opportunities they truly appreciate,” McDaniel remarked on Friday. “From a coaching perspective, it’s incredibly exciting for the team.”
Tagovailoa’s concussion occurred during a collision with Buffalo Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin while he was running for a first down, choosing to lower his shoulder into Hamlin instead of opting to slide. He stated on Monday that he has remained without symptoms since the day following the concussion diagnosis.
With a notable history of head injuries, including two concussions last year and a concerning hit that season prompting updates to the NFL’s concussion protocols, Tagovailoa has taken his health seriously. Over the past month, he has travelled extensively to consult various medical professionals regarding his concussion history, with all advising against retirement.
Although he has opted not to wear a Guardian Cap—an optional protective helmet cover—due to personal reasons, Tagovailoa does utilize a quarterback-specific helmet specifically designed to mitigate head injuries.