Dolphins fans, hold your breath: Tua Tagovailoa is nearing a return from his latest concussion, but his future in the NFL remains uncertain. After missing three games this season, Miami is anxiously awaiting their star quarterback’s return to turn things around. However, former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman voiced serious doubts on OutKick’s Hot Mic podcast, warning that Tua’s health risks may push the league or Dolphins management to pull the plug if he suffers another concussion. “If it does happen again… the NFL’s going to step in, the Dolphins gonna step in and say, okay, we’re pulling the plug. I don’t care what you want to do anymore,” Merriman cautioned, suggesting the end could be near if Tua’s injury streak continues.
Concussion issues have haunted Tagovailoa’s career. He’s suffered three in the past three seasons, two in 2022 alone. After his 2022 concussions, the NFLPA took action, firing the independent neurotrauma consultant responsible for evaluating him and updating protocols around head injuries, shifting from “gross motor instability” to “ataxia”—highlighting any brain-related coordination or balance issues as a potential red flag.
The pressure is mounting. Tua’s presence is crucial to the Dolphins’ playoff hopes this season, yet his health risks are all too real. Merriman painted a grim picture, noting, “I hate to put this out…but you have to know that one is going to come in at some point of time.” With the Dolphins’ season hanging in the balance, Tua’s potential comeback carries weight—but at what cost?
So, is Tua risking too much for a Dolphins revival, or is he their only shot this season? The answer could define Miami’s future—and Tua’s career. Stay tuned; this story is still unfolding.
