Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is out indefinitely after suffering a concussion in their Week 4 game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
He manifested signs of the injury, including the awkward alignment of his fingers, after absorbing a sack from defensive tackle Josh Tupou.
As a result, the unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant that helped clear Tagovailoa for that game was fired.
After all, he shouldn’t be on the field after a sickening sequence during their Week 3 game versus the Buffalo Bills.
In that game, he got up after taking a hit, only to fall again.
Meanwhile, NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero shared an update about Tagovailoa’s condition.
#Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa will return to the field and throw today as part of his progression through concussion protocol, sources say. Highly unlikely to play Sunday vs. the #Vikings, but he's headed in the right direction.
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— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 12, 2022
Pelissero tweeted, “#Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa will return to the field and throw today as part of his progression through concussion protocol, sources say. Highly unlikely to play Sunday vs. the #Vikings, but he’s headed in the right direction.”
He added, “Tua has consulted with four independent specialists, including the top sports concussion neurologist and the top neuropsychologist. His rehab work increased over the weekend to include cardio and strength training. Today’s return to the field is the next step in protocol.”
Taking It Slow
This time, Tagovailoa is not risking a quick return for long-term success.
But with him possibly out of action in Week 6 against the Minnesota Vikings, the Dolphins are in danger of suffering yet another defeat.
The Dolphins are yet to win in games Tagovailoa did not finish this season.
Worst yet, they lost to the Bengals by 12 and to the New York Jets in Week 5 by 23.
Therefore, his absence has highlighted his importance to the Dolphins’ lofty goals this season.
Unfortunately, the team and their fans will have to wait a bit longer before their starting play-caller returns.
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