The Miami Dolphins face a critical juncture as they work to ensure the health of their franchise quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa. Having missed six games in the 2024 season, Tagovailoa's availability remains a focal point for the team's success. Despite leading the NFL with a 72.9% completion rate, amassing 2,867 passing yards and 19 touchdowns against seven interceptions last season, concerns about his recurrent injuries persist.
Tagovailoa's injury history is notable. In 2021, he missed four games due to broken ribs and a broken finger. The following year, multiple concussions sidelined him for another four games. Most recently, he missed a career-high six games in 2024, with four due to a concussion and two stemming from an undisclosed hip injury. Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier described his latest injury as "very unique," yet reassured fans by expressing "no concern at all" for any long-term effects.
As Tagovailoa openly expressed his frustration over the growing number of games missed, Grier emphasized the importance of his availability.
"He needs to be available. He needs to know how to protect himself," remarked Chris Grier.
The Dolphins' management acknowledges that while some hits are unavoidable, Tagovailoa needs to mitigate risks where possible.
"You're going to get hit at times, it's always going to happen, but he needs to control what he can control," Grier added.
Despite the setbacks, Tagovailoa demonstrated his potential in 2023 by playing all 18 games, including playoffs, and leading the NFL in passing yards. His performance that year underscored the quarterback's capabilities when healthy. Dolphins Hall of Famer Dan Marino has voiced his support for Tagovailoa, recognizing the team's potential when injuries are minimized.
"I thought we had a very good football team until we started getting injuries, especially at the end of the year," Marino stated.
Nevertheless, Marino also highlighted the necessity for the Dolphins to prioritize keeping Tagovailoa healthy if they hope to maintain their competitive edge.
Leave a Reply