For the first time since suffering a concussion on Sept. 12 in a Week 2 loss to the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa broke his silence and spoke to reporters Monday ahead of his return to practice this week.
In the immediate aftermath of his injury, many suggested that Tagovailoa retire from the sport due to his history of head injuries. The fifth-year quarterback defiantly and tersely dismissed the idea Monday.
“This is what I love to do. This is what makes me happy, and I’m gonna do it. That’s it,” Tagovailoa said.
During a tumultuous 2022 season, Tagovailoa suffered multiple concussions and told reporters in the subsequent offseason that he considered retirement. But this time around?
“Nope. None of that.”
And will Tagovailoa wear a Guardian cap like his teammate De’Von Achane did Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts?
“Nope. Personal choice.”
Tagovailoa left zero doubt that he intends to return to the field as soon as possible and gave no indication that he’s concerned about his long-term health or his ability to continue playing football at a high level. He did, however, address the outpouring of concern, which has included fans and many former players.
“I appreciate your concern. I really do,” Tagovailoa said. “I love this game, and I love it to the death of me. That’s it.”
Tagovailoa is still on the Dolphins’ injured reserve for now, but the team can move him to the active roster at any point in the next three weeks. The expectation is that they’ll do so later this week to make him available Sunday for a game against the Arizona Cardinals.
In his first two starts of this season, Tagovailoa completed 64.5 percent of his passes for 483 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions. Last season, he led the NFL in passing yards with 4,624 and earned Pro Bowl honors.
