Pressure to perform is one thing, but a $212.4 million contract? That’s a whole different ball game. And according to Dolphins legend Ronnie Brown, that massive paycheck might just be the reason for Tua Tagovailoa‘s quick return to the field. During the EssentiallySports exclusive chat with the Behind the Mask podcast, Brown shared why he thinks Tua’s big contract has him feeling the heat to get back on the field, even with the risks involved.

When the BTM podcast host asked if that hefty contract weighed on Tua, Brown didn’t hold back. “When we got injured, it’s a different fear than outside pressure,” he explained. “You’re looking at the dawgs you went through the offseason with. He’s [Tua] the piece that can get this team over the hump.” Well, he spat the fact… And the stats back Tua’s importance to the Dolphins. With him at the helm, they’re 36-22. Without him? A grim 6-12. Yikes. Those numbers tell the story. And that’s a lot of weight on his shoulders. Plus, it’s ever more so clear why Miami shelled out the big bucks to keep him under center.

Brown believes Tua feels the weight of his teammates’ expectations: “They just gave it to me. Tyreek, these guys—they’re relying on me. I don’t want to let these guys down.” Brown knows that feeling. It’s not just about the coaches or GMs—it’s about not letting down the guys you go to war with. And in the NFL, as the former RB hints, players will do what it takes—painkillers, whatever, you can think of—to get back out there.

It’s not just the performance pressure, though. Tua’s health, especially after that scary 2022 concussion incident, is still a big question. Fans remember that unforgettable scene—Tua stretchered off the field after a brutal hit, his hands locked in that unnatural motion. That, combined with another concussion later that year, had everyone worried. The hits were rough enough that his entire career was suddenly under the spotlight. And yet here he is, back under center and playing like a man with something to prove.

So, is Tua avoiding risks? Not exactly. He knows the stakes, and he’s got his weapon in Tyreek “Cheetah” Hill at his side. But it’s clear—this is more than just a paycheck for Tua. As Brown says, it’s about “not letting down the guys.”

Tua Tagovailoa must keep him first (above the dawgs)

So, is it about letting himself down? On Monday night against the Rams, Tua Tagovailoa threw a pick and, in an attempt to redeem himself, went for the tackle—only to take a knee to the head. You’d think he’d back off after his concussion history, right? But Tua brushed it off, saying, “No, I didn’t feel any of that. That was pretty bad tackling form though. That was pretty terrible.” Can you imagine? He’s got that warrior mentality. But maybe, just maybe…that’s the problem.

After a string of head injuries, Tua chose not to wear a Guardian Cap this season, opting instead to “play smart.” And he’s been mostly disciplined, steering clear of those risky moves. But instincts kicked in Monday, and Tagovailoa found himself diving after Rams LB Christian Rozeboom—knee to head and all. Phew! Thankfully, he walked away without injury, leading the Dolphins to their third win of the season. But if you belong to the Dolphins Nation, you are surely questioning: Why? What was the need? 

And let’s just say no one has the answer to that. Head coach Mike McDaniel had a straightforward take on Tua’s risky play: “The best way to do that is to not throw it to the opponent.” Ouch. Sure, avoiding interceptions would help. But if we cut to the chase—picks happen. It’s the NFL; no QB is immune. The real question is how to keep Tua safe when things don’t go as planned.

McDaniel also acknowledged Tua’s growth, saying he’s learned to “lead” and move on, even when things go south. “When something doesn’t go well, he gets so mad at himself… but he’s recognizing that he’s the franchise quarterback.” That’s all well and good. But Miami needs Tua healthy if they want any shot at a deep playoff run.

In the end, the 26-year-old with a family to hold, like holds the team from under center, needs to prioritize his health over those “dawg” instincts to jump into the action. Losing Tua for more than the IR minimum? That’s a risk the Dolphins simply can’t afford.

Hmm… Agree with a legend’s POV on mounting pressures on Tua Tagovailoa? If you did then, stay tuned because EssentiallySports in collaboration with Behind the Mask Podcast has more exclusives like these lined up for the fans. You can find it on the BTM YT Channel.