As of 2024, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been diagnosed with at least three concussions which have sidelined him from playing for weeks at a time.
Earlier this season, the 26-year-old athlete suffered another blow to the head that landed him on injured reserve (IR), but news broke that he’d begin practicing again this week.
Many believed Tua might end up retiring due to his multiple brain injuries over the years, but he just gave a news conference confirming his return this season.
The Dolphins have a 2-4 record this year.
Keep reading to find out more…
First, Tua was asked if he’d be wearing a Guardian Cap in game going forward. According to ESPN, Guardian Caps are worn as an extra layer of protection to reduce risk of concussion. They are a soft pad worn atop the helmet, and can allegedly absorb 10% of the force of a hit.
You can see a few examples of Guardian Caps below.
Tua confirmed he would NOT wear a Guardian Cap, which also surprised many. When asked why, he cited “personal reasons.”
“I appreciate your concern,” he added (via the Miami Herald). “I really do. I love this game. And I love it to the death of me. Thats it.”
About his brain health and what multiple concussions might mean for him, he shared, “There is a gray area when it comes to that, [regarding] if you know if you’re going to get longterm disease or are not. This [game] is what makes me happy. And I’m going to do it. That’s it.”
He continued, “Given what the doctors have told me, having a substantial amount of time to rest and recover, they did what was best, protecting myself from myself.”
He did not consider retiring, but did say, “Had some conversations with my wife.”
He acknowledges that doctors told him about future risks, but has felt no symptoms since he went down on September 12. He claims to remember most of what happened on the field that day.