Tua Tagovailoa Returns to Practice After Cleared by Medical Experts
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa returned to practice Wednesday after being cleared by medical experts.
First Practice Since Week 2
It was Tagovailoa’s first practice since week 2 of the NFL season.
Boost in Team Morale
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel was asked Wednesday if Tua’s return would boost the team’s morale.
“It will be a big deal considering he’s the captain and leader of this franchise, he’s the franchise QB that without question when the players were voting for the captains he has the most votes,” McDaniel said.
History of Concussions
Tagovailoa was hurt on Sept. 13 when he collided with Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin on a scramble. He has a history of concussions, having been diagnosed with two such injuries in 2022.
Tua Spoke to the Media
Tagovailoa spoke to the media on Monday about his potential comeback. He claimed to have been symptom-free since the day after his concussion diagnosis and that he won’t wear a guardian cap in his return out of personal preference.
Dolphins’ Struggles Without Tagovailoa
Since Tagovailoa’s injury, the Dolphins have struggled to get consistent quarterback play. Skylar Thompson replaced him initially before injuring his ribs, then Tyler Huntley went 1-1 before getting hurt and replaced by Tim Boyle in Sunday’s loss to the Indianapolis Colts. The Dolphins are 2-4 and scored just 40 points in the four games without Tagovailoa.
Potential Impact on Playoff Chances
Despite their subpar record, the Dolphins are still in the hunt for the AFC postseason. Miami is just one loss behind the current No. 7 seed Colts, and Tagovailoa’s return would seemingly give them an instant boost on offense.
Ongoing Battle for Starting QB Spot
The Arizona Cardinals will visit South Florida on Sunday for Week 8, with the Dolphins’ starting QB still to be determined.
Conclusion
The return of Tua Tagovailoa is a welcome boost for the Miami Dolphins, who have struggled to get consistent quarterback play without him. His presence is expected to give the team a much-needed lift, and his leadership skills will be crucial in their quest for the AFC postseason.
FAQs
Q: What was Tua Tagovailoa’s status after his injury?
A: Tua Tagovailoa was cleared by medical experts and returned to practice on Wednesday.
Q: How long has it been since Tua Tagovailoa last practiced?
A: It has been since Week 2 of the NFL season.
Q: Will Tua wear a guardian cap in his return?
A: Tua Tagovailoa has stated that he will not wear a guardian cap in his return, citing personal preference.
Q: What is the Dolphins’ current record?
A: The Dolphins are 2-4 since Tua’s injury.
Q: Are the Dolphins in the hunt for the AFC postseason?
A: Yes, the Dolphins are just one loss behind the current No. 7 seed Colts, making them still in the hunt for the playoffs.
