Tua Tagovailoa answers why he chose not to retire
Sep 8, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) looks on before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Tua Tagovailoa is getting set to return from his latest concussion, and the Miami Dolphins star says the thought of retiring from the NFL never entered his mind.
Tagovailoa has been activated off of injured reserve and will practice on Wednesday. He spoke with the media on Monday for the first time since he suffered a concussion in Week 2. Tagovailoa had a strong message for those who urged him to walk away from football.
“I appreciate your concern, I really do,” Tagovailoa said. “I love this game, and I love it to the death of me. That’s it.”
Tua Tagovailoa on those who worry he could get hurt again: “I appreciate your concern. I really do. I love this game. And I love it to the death of me. That’s it.” pic.twitter.com/fAvoHA2PXo
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) October 21, 2024
Tagovailoa was also asked how much risk he is taking by continuing his playing career. He noted how anyone who drives to work takes a risk and said he is “willing to play the odds.”
Tagovailoa also said he will not be wearing a Guardian Cap. Dolphins running back De’Von Achane wore one on Sunday after he returned from a concussion. Tagovailoa said it is a “personal choice” for the quarterback to not do the same.
“Nope. Personal choice,” Tagovailoa said. “You just gotta be smart, that’s it. You gotta be smart. My entire time playing football I’ve been a competitor and that is — or was — sort of my edge, when I would run. From high school and even in college, I would do the same thing. It’s a professional setting, this is the professional level, the best of the best. You know, you just can’t be doing that, so definitely gotta stay more available for the team, for the organization, for our guys.”
Tua Tagovailoa says he won’t wear a guardian cap on his helmet because of personal choice. He says he needs to be more available for his team. pic.twitter.com/qDolvRjKnV
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) October 21, 2024
Many of Tagovailoa’s responses seemed defiant, which is understandable considering how many people have tried to tell him what to do with his life and career. Tua said he has been symptom-free since the day after he suffered the concussion on Sept. 12.
The Dolphins desperately need Tagovailoa back. That became even more evident with the brutal mistake backup quarterback Tim Boyle made at the end of Sunday’s loss to the Indianapolis Colts.
As long as all goes to plan, Tagovailoa should be back under center in Week 8 against the Arizona Cardinals.