On September 12, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa sustained another concussion during a game against the Buffalo Bills after a collision with Damar Hamlin. This incident added to Tua’s growing list of head injuries in the NFL, a concerning trend for both his immediate health and long-term well-being. Following the hit, Tua’s hands assumed the telltale fencing posture, a troubling visual often seen after significant head trauma. This was his third serious concussion in three years, with two of those incidents involving the same distressing hand position. As a result, the Dolphins are proceeding with extreme caution regarding his future in the sport. Yet, it’s worth noting that these are just the concussions we know of, raising even more alarm about the potential unseen damage.
The mounting concern surrounding Tua’s health extends far beyond football, as many people—fans, players, and medical professionals—are increasingly vocal about their fears for his future quality of life. Former players and teammates have also weighed in, offering their thoughts and insights on the challenges that come with balancing a passion for football and the risks it entails.
The culture within the NFL, and football as a whole, often glorifies playing through pain and injury. For many players, competing, despite the risks, is seen as a necessary sacrifice to ensure financial security for themselves and their families. This mindset often leads players to push through injuries, even when logic would dictate otherwise. Throughout the NFL’s history, countless athletes have continued to play after suffering concussions, even though the long-term risks are now well-documented.
One of the most significant dangers associated with repeated head injuries is Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). The condition gained widespread attention due to the film *Concussion*, starring Will Smith, which highlighted the tragic fates of many former NFL players who endured life-altering struggles after their playing days were over. Many of these athletes experienced difficulty adjusting to normal life due to the lasting effects of head trauma, and in several cases, this led to violent and tragic ends. The evidence surrounding CTE is undeniable, and it’s one of the key reasons why there’s so much concern for Tua.
From my perspective, it seems that Tua will likely try to return to the field. The competitive spirit that drives players like him is difficult to suppress. However, given the frequency and severity of his injuries, it’s hard to imagine his career lasting much longer. Football is an inherently violent sport, and avoiding hits is virtually impossible. Unlike chronic injuries such as the ankle problems Steph Curry overcame in basketball, head injuries can have a profound and irreversible impact on a player’s life. The lasting effects can compromise cognitive function, mental health, and overall quality of life.
Tua is still young, not even 30, and many people, including his family and fans, hope he chooses a path that prioritizes his long-term health and happiness. They undoubtedly want him to fully comprehend how critical this period is for his future. While no one can make that decision for him, the hope is that he exercises caution and seriously considers the potential consequences of continuing to play. If he doesn’t, there’s a fear that the worst head injury of his career may still be yet to come—a thought that is painful to even contemplate.
