Tua Tagovailoa returns to the field amid concussion concerns

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla.— Despite calls to consider retirement, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa returned to the football field Sunday, playing his first game since he sustained the third concussion of his professional career last month. 

“I’ve been preparing for five weeks as if I were to play while I was on” injured reserve, Tagovailoa said at a news conference after the Dolphins' loss to the Arizona Cardinals. “So it felt normal coming out there.”  

Before kickoff, Tagovailoa jogged onto the Dolphins’ home field to roaring approval from fans six weeks after a terrifying collision with Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, a moment that drew national attention.

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The hit on Sept. 12 led to Tagovailoa’s third confirmed NFL concussion. 

While the long-term health consequences of such injuries are still unclear, some experts say his past head injuries mean he’s at a higher risk of another concussion. Concussions can lead to serious long-term effects, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel said at a news conference Friday that Tagovailoa, 26, had consulted with numerous medical experts, all of whom did not advise against his return to football. 

Despite the uncertainties around his health and the public pressure to reconsider, Tagovailoa returned to the field Sunday and led the Miami Dolphins to a touchdown on their very first drive, showcasing a clever trick pass.  

Tagovailoa completed 19 passes in the first half — his most in a half since Week 11 of the 2023 season and the seventh time in his career he has completed at least 19 in a half, according to the Dolphins.  

Another notable play came early in the second half when Tagovailoa ran for 13 yards, securing a first down before sliding to avoid a tackle from the Cardinals' defense. The crowd erupted into cheers, chanting, "Tua, Tua, Tua!"

The Cardinals beat the Dolphins 28-27.

Tagovailoa told reporters last week he opted not to wear a Guardian Cap, saying it was a "personal choice." The NFL’s top doctor said Tagovailoa would gain minimal benefit because he already wears a newer, more protective helmet.  

Dolphins fans were happy to have their starting quarterback return from injury.

“I’m glad I came to this game,” fan Carson Campbell said.     

Another fan, Brandon Derber, said, "If he wants to keep playing football, he should keep playing football, so, and I think honestly the way he's acting, he wants to perform pretty well."