Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa entered the NFL concussion protocols three times during the 2022 season, with one stint coming after he was carted off the field following a head injury on Thursday Night Football.
Amid uncertainty surrounding the 24-year-old’s future, both in the NFL and in regard to his long-term health, Tagovailoa’s parents have now spoken out.
- Tua Tagovailoa stats (2022): 105.5 QB rating, 25-8 TD-INT, 64.8% completion
After suffering his first diagnosed concussion in October, the Dolphins’ quarterback hinted he might not have had his parents’ unwavering support when he decided to return. While he hasn’t provided any recent updates following his season-ending head injury, those closest to him are shedding light on his future.
Related: Tua Tagovailoa remains in concussion protocol
Addressing reporters at the annual Polynesian Bowl, Diane and Galu Tagovailoa shared that their son fully plans to play football next season for Miami.
“No, he comes back. That’s their guy. They love him, we love them and what they’re doing and how they are helping with his recovery and trying to get him back.”
Tua Tagovailoa’s parents on his future in the NFL
Tagovailoa’s head injuries and the handling of concussion protocols became a center of debate in the NFL during the 2022 season.
On Sep. 25 against the Buffalo Bills, Tagovailoa hit his head on the turf and immediately showed instability while trying to get up and walk to the huddle for the next play. Miami kept him in the game and days later he was taken off the field on a stretcher against the Cincinnati Bengals after his head slammed into the ground on a sack.
Related: Tua Tagovailoa ‘expected’ to be Miami Dolphins QB in 2023
The NFL changes its protocols for pulling a player out of the game, requiring that any player who displays “gross motor instability” must be pulled from the field immediately and held out for the remainder of the contest.
While Tagovailoa suffered two concussions this year, general manager Chris Grier said in January that neurologists believe Miami’s franchise quarterback is no more prone to concussions than any other NFL player.
Miami could still pursue a veteran quarterback in free agency to serve as Tagovailoa’s backup, given he has missed multiple games due to injury in each of his first three seasons. Fortunately, Tagovailoa is on track to play football next season and he will return as the Dolphins’ starter.
