Tua Tagovailoa’s road to recovery has been a challenging one, marked by his fourth documented concussion in five years, a worrying trend that’s caused fans and analysts to question his future. The Miami Dolphins QB was sidelined after a head injury in Week 2 against the Buffalo Bills, where a collision with Bills safety Damar Hamlin brought immediate signs of a concussion, leading Miami to place him on injured reserve. With a history of concussions, Tagovailoa’s latest recovery journey has raised serious discussions about his long-term health.

Tua might just be back in action for Week 8. The Miami Dolphins quarterback has been working through the 21-day practice window following a concussion that landed him on Injured Reserve. NFL insider Ian Rapoport reports that Tua was a “full participant” in practice, a huge step forward in his recovery. Rapoport noted the team is “expecting” positive news from his concussion protocol clearance today.

The insider also added that the Dolphins activated his 21-day practice window, making this week the earliest he can return to play. Despite lingering concerns, the Dolphins QB was reportedly “symptom-free” as early as the day after his concussion, with medical experts recommending rest as a precautionary measure. This careful approach has sparked optimism, with Rapoport stating that “barring setbacks, he should be good to go.”

Fans and former players have mixed feelings about Tua’s return, with some expressing caution due to his injury history. Former NFL star Tony Gonzalez openly advised, “If I’m him, I’d seriously consider retiring from football.” However, Tua remains unfazed, stating he “wasn’t paying attention” to the public’s concerns, focusing instead on his recovery and the game ahead.

As the Dolphins gear up for a Week 8 showdown, expectations are high for Tua’s return. While he needs final clearance, the signs are looking positive. With the offense struggling in his absence, his presence could give the Fins a much-needed boost as they aim to turn their season around. Fans await with bated breath, hopeful Tua will step onto the field and lead his team once again.

Tua Tagovailoa’s clears concussion protocols

Tua Tagovailoa has faced a gauntlet of injuries since his college days, but his recent concussion history has raised fresh concerns. The Miami Dolphins quarterback suffered his third NFL concussion in Week 2, sidelining him and reigniting debates about his safety on the field. Tagovailoa sustained his first big injury back in 2019 at Alabama, when he fractured his pelvis, dislocated his hip, broke his nose, and suffered a concussion in a single play. It was a devastating hit that cost him the rest of his college season.

After weeks of intense care and consultations with top medical experts, Tua Tagovailoa has cleared the NFL’s five-step concussion protocol. The star quarterback worked closely with his doctors, family, and an independent neurologist who all supported his comeback. Tagovailoa, who had open talks about his concussion history, saw zero recommendations for retirement, setting the stage for a strong return.

While the Dolphins cleared him to return, each injury has fans and experts wondering if it’s time for Tagovailoa to consider extra protections, like the Guardian Cap. As renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Julian Bailes put it, Tagovailoa’s “style of play” may be why he’s back again facing these risks.