We already knew that Los Angeles Rams stud defensive tackle Aaron Donald is a problem. Just ask any quarterback in the NFL. Apparently, Donald wanted Miami Dolphins rookie first-round pick Tua Tagovailoa to find that out early in his initial NFL start.
Taking over for veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick under center, Tagovailoa’s first drop back of Sunday’s game against the Rams did not go according to plan.
It included a strip-sack from Mr. Donald, leading indirectly to a Los Angeles touchdown and a 7-0 Dolphins deficit.
Tagovailoa did well to step up into the pocket when initially faced with pressure. Unfortunately, the lefty did not see Donald coming. It’s nothing to be ashamed about. Donald has earned three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards for a reason.
Related: If you’re a fan of the Dolphins, check out #FinUp rumors, rankings, and news here.
The good news for Tagovailoa in his NFL debut? He did not suffer an injury on the play. Remember, the Alabama product went down with a hip injury late in his final season with the Crimson Tide. Getting hit for the first time and coming up clean is a good sign.
The bad news? This fumble led to a Robert Woods four-yard touchdown run and a 7-0 Rams lead.
Here are some top reactions to the disastrous start of Tagovailoa’s NFL career.