Miami Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa says he loves football ‘to the death of me’ ahead of return to practice

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is gearing up to return to practice this Wednesday after missing the last four games due to a concussion. Although he is set to rejoin his teammates, he still needs to pass through the league’s concussion protocol before he can take the field in the upcoming home game against the Arizona Cardinals at Hard Rock Stadium.

At just 26 years old, Tagovailoa has faced significant scrutiny regarding his health, especially after a series of concussions. Acknowledging the concerns from fans and analysts alike, he emphasized his unwavering love for the game. “I appreciate your concern,” Tagovailoa stated during a press conference on Monday. “I really do. I love this game and I love it to the death of me. That’s it.”

Despite the risks associated with his return, Tagovailoa has made a personal decision regarding safety gear. He confirmed that he would not wear a Guardian Cap, a soft-shell helmet covering designed to provide extra protection. He described this choice as a “personal choice,” underscoring his belief in his ability to handle the game.

When questioned about the risks he faces by returning to play, he made a thought-provoking comparison. “How much risk do we take when we get up in the morning to go drive to work? You can get in a car crash,” he explained. He elaborated that the risks of injury are inherent in any activity, saying, “Every time we all suit up, we’re all taking a risk that we could potentially get hurt, whether it’s a concussion, a broken bone, or even just getting up off of the bed the wrong way.” His attitude reflects a calculated acceptance of the risks involved in his profession, as he added, “There’s just risk in anything, and I’m willing to play the odds.”

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel expressed confidence in Tagovailoa’s return, noting that medical experts have deemed it safe for him to resume practice. “I don’t mess with timelines or try to overcook or forecast,” McDaniel said. “You lean on experts for matters of the career, and that’s what we’re doing here.” This highlights the team’s commitment to player safety and adherence to medical advice.

However, McDaniel also stressed the importance of Tagovailoa being more cautious on the field. “I think he has a better understanding of his responsibility towards the entire organization at this point,” McDaniel stated. He acknowledged that Tagovailoa feels a tremendous responsibility to do everything he can to be available for his team, which includes protecting himself during games.

“Part of that is protecting yourself,” McDaniel added. He emphasized that Tagovailoa must be smart about how he engages in contact, even in pursuit of a first down. This call for caution is especially critical given the player’s recent history with concussions.

Tagovailoa’s last concussion occurred on September 12, when he dove for a first down and was hit by Bills safety Damar Hamlin. Fortunately, he was able to walk off the field unaided after the collision, but the incident raised alarms about his ongoing health.

During Tagovailoa’s absence, the Dolphins struggled, managing just one win in four games. The team’s offense averaged a league-low 8.75 points per game without their starting quarterback, highlighting his significance to the team’s performance.

As he prepares to return, Tagovailoa’s passion for football remains evident. His commitment to the game and willingness to face the risks associated with it reflect a deep-seated love for the sport. For both Tagovailoa and the Dolphins, this return is crucial—not just for his career but for the team’s aspirations in the season ahead.

As fans look forward to seeing him back in action, the Dolphins organization is focused on ensuring that their star quarterback can compete safely, balancing his love for the game with the realities of professional football.