Tua Tagovailoa Exits with Concussion in Dolphins’ Defeat to Bills

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered a concussion during the team’s 31-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night. The injury occurred in the third quarter, adding to a challenging night for the Dolphins and their star quarterback.

Incident Details

Tagovailoa’s injury came on a fourth-and-4 play from the Buffalo 13-yard line. While attempting to gain a first down, Tagovailoa scrambled and dove headfirst, but was met by Bills safety Damar Hamlin. The impact appeared to cause Tagovailoa to hit his head on Hamlin’s body. After the collision, Tagovailoa lay on the field for several moments before being helped off by the Dolphins’ medical staff and escorted to the locker room.

With 4:24 remaining in the third quarter and the Dolphins trailing 31-10, backup quarterback Skylar Thompson took over. The Dolphins later confirmed Tagovailoa’s concussion.

Team Reactions and Future Concerns

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel expressed his concern for Tagovailoa, saying, “My thought was concern. I was just worried about my guy. It’s not something that you ever want to be a part of. You hope not to.” Backup quarterback Skylar Thompson shared his sympathy, noting, “It makes me sick. It sucks. In my position, you never want to have your opportunity come with something like that. Have a lot of love for Tua. Built a great relationship with him and you care about the person more than the player.”

Tagovailoa, who had accumulated 145 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions before his exit, has a history of injuries. In the 2022 season, he suffered two known concussions and was limited to 13 games. He also missed the remainder of his 2019 collegiate season at Alabama due to a hip injury.

Hamlin’s Well Wishes and Immediate Future

Damar Hamlin, who experienced a cardiac arrest on the field during a “Monday Night Football” game in January 2023, sent his well wishes to Tagovailoa for a “speedy recovery” on social media. The focus for the Dolphins now shifts to Tagovailoa’s health and recovery. McDaniel emphasized, “Right now, it’s more about getting a proper procedural evaluation and taking it one day at a time. We’ll get more information and then take it day by day from there.”

As the Dolphins await further updates on Tagovailoa’s condition, questions about his future and continued health will undoubtedly be a focal point for the team and its supporters.