When a player suffers a massive head injury like Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa did when he suffered a high-profile and scary concussion against the Cincinnati Bengals, most would probably try to avoid big hits to their head or upper body in the future. That’s exactly what the Dolphins asked and expected Tagovailoa to do once he returned to the field, but Tagovailoa isn’t necessarily following that guidance.
During Sunday night’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, there were several occasions where Tua Tagovailoa could have avoided taking a seemingly unnecessary hit to the head or upper body by sliding or throwing the ball away. Instead, however, the Miami quarterback elected to put his shoulder down and take some hits.
And based on how he talked after the game, it doesn’t sound like he plans to change the way he plays – despite emphasis from his coaches.
According to Ari Meirov of Pro Football Focus, Tagovailoa’s coaches have “emphasized they don’t want him to lower his head/shoulder like he did on Sunday night.” But Tagovailoa isn’t listening to them.
“For me, it’s football,” Tagovailoa said, according to Meirov. “I can see the first down in instances and want to do all that I can do to go and get it.”
While the Dolphins undoubtedly appreciate his passion, it would be more helpful for the team in the long run if he stays healthy, even if it sacrifices a first down here and there. And as one prominent neuroscientist explained, repeated head trauma could prove deadly for Tagovailoa.
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