Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has returned to practice for the first time since suffering a concussion in Week 2. The Dolphins, with a current standing of 2-4, are hopeful that Tagovailoa will be fit to start in their upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.
Despite the positive step of returning to practice, Tagovailoa still needs to complete the final stages of the NFL’s concussion protocol before being cleared to play. Head coach Mike McDaniel expressed optimism about Tagovailoa’s progress, stating, “I feel very good about how he attacked this whole process and how he came out of it to this day.”
Following his concussion on September 12th after a collision with Buffalo Bills’ player Damar Hamlin, Tagovailoa consulted with medical experts specialized in head injuries. These experts have deemed it safe for Tagovailoa to resume football activities.
In response to concerns about his safety, Tagovailoa confirmed that he will not be wearing a Guardian Cap, a protective helmet cover. He already wears a quarterback-specific helmet aimed at reducing head injuries. The quarterback acknowledged the importance of being smart about his approach to the game and staying available for his team and the organization.
Amidst discussions about his health and safety, Tagovailoa reiterated his love for the game and his competitiveness. He acknowledged the need to adjust his playing style at the professional level to ensure his availability and well-being for the team.
The Dolphins have made roster moves by signing veteran quarterback C.J. Beathard and wide receiver Tarik Black to the practice squad while releasing tight end Hayden Rucci. With Tyler Huntley expected to be unavailable due to a shoulder injury, the backup quarterback position remains to be determined based on the performances of Beathard, Tim Boyle, and Skylar Thompson in practice.
In conclusion, Tua Tagovailoa’s return to practice marks a significant step in his recovery from a concussion, bringing hope to the Dolphins and their fans for his potential return to the starting lineup against the Arizona Cardinals. It remains to be seen how Tagovailoa’s health progresses and whether he will be cleared to play on Sunday.
Insights and Summary:
In rewriting the article, the focus was on providing a concise and engaging summary of Tua Tagovailoa’s return to practice following a concussion. By breaking down the information into clear paragraphs, the article becomes easier to read and understand for the audience. The inclusion of insights highlights the significance of Tagovailoa’s recovery for the Dolphins and the uncertainties surrounding his availability for the upcoming game.