Tua Tagovailoa is set to return to the Miami Dolphins starting lineup in their upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals after clearing the NFL’s concussion protocol. However, his return has reignited discussions about whether he should continue his career, given the number of concussions he has sustained. Despite the concerns surrounding his long-term health, both Tagovailoa and the Dolphins remain firm in their belief that his return is the right decision.
The Dolphins, however, are hoping to see one significant change in Tagovailoa’s style of play: they want him to slide more and take fewer risks. Tagovailoa has become known for his relentless, sometimes reckless, playing style, which often results in him taking unnecessary hits. The Dolphins’ coaching staff and his teammates are encouraging him to be more cautious in order to protect himself from further injury.
Head coach Mike McDaniel has had conversations with Tagovailoa about his importance to the team and emphasized the need for him to stay on the field. McDaniel has urged him to be more mindful of avoiding hits by throwing the ball away and sliding when needed, rather than taking unnecessary risks. Running back Raheem Mostert echoed this sentiment, revealing that he and others have been talking to Tagovailoa about the importance of sliding ever since his last injury. While there is some light-hearted banter about the subject, Mostert made it clear that Tagovailoa understands the serious nature of the advice.
One potential protective measure that has been suggested for Tagovailoa is the use of a Guardian Cap, a padded helmet cover designed to reduce head impact. However, Tagovailoa has been resistant to the idea, dismissing it as a personal choice. His refusal to wear the Guardian Cap, combined with his history of concussions, raises concerns about the risks he faces every time he takes the field. Given his young age, aggressive playing style, and injury history, there is growing concern about the long-term implications for both his football career and his life after the game.
While changing his playing style might not come easily to Tagovailoa, who has played a certain way for much of his career, both he and the Dolphins must find a way to minimize the risks. If Tagovailoa continues to expose himself to hits, there is always the possibility that he could suffer another concussion, which could have serious consequences for his health and career longevity.
The Dolphins offense has struggled in Tagovailoa’s absence, ranking among the worst in the NFL this season. His return is expected to bring a much-needed boost to the team, but the key concern will be whether they can protect him—and whether he can protect himself—moving forward. The Dolphins understand that Tagovailoa’s health is crucial to their success, and they will need to ensure that he adapts his playing style to avoid further injuries.
