Miami Dolphins starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is not expected to participate in February’s Pro Bowl Games because he has yet to be released from the NFL’s concussion protocols.
In Week 4, Tua Tagovailoa’s health became a national story after the young star was brutally knocked out in the first half of a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. The severe brain injury he suffered led to a scary moment on the field that night and to the 24-year-old missing nearly a month of action.
Unfortunately, due to his aggressive play and willingness to tuck the ball and run, the brain injury he suffered in September was not the only one he incurred in the 2022-2023 season. In Week 3 he suffered what many consider an undiagnosed concussion in the Miami Dolphins’ win over the Buffalo Bills, and a second confirmed brain injury in a Week 16 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
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It seems that despite entering the NFL concussion protocols a month ago, Tua Tagovailoa has not yet been cleared for a return to the field and will now also miss competing in the Feb. 5 Pro Bowl Games.
Tua Tagovailoa went into NFL concussion protocols for a second time on Dec. 26
On Friday, ESPN reported that Tua Tagovailoa has yet to be released from the league’s concussion protocols after entering them on Dec. 26. Since he has not been officially cleared to return to action, he will miss next week’s Pro Bowl Games where he was set to serve as a replacement for MVP candidates Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes, once it is decided which will be busy in the Super Bowl in two weeks.
However, while that revelation may seem like a reason for serious concern, it seems that the slow pace of clearing Tagovailoa has been purposeful.
“According to the source, Tagovailoa’s time in the protocol has been deliberate as he meets with multiple doctors and specialists. There have not been any setbacks as the Dolphins prioritize his long-term health.”
– Report on Tua Tagovailoa’s health
Despite missing six games this season, and cooling off in the second half of the season after a hot start, Tua Tagovailoa is still expected to be the Miami Dolphins’ undisputed starting quarterback heading into the 2023-2024 season.
This year, the Pro Bowl won’t be a game between top stars from the AFC and NFC and instead will feature several different skills competitions.