Tua Tagovailoa, the Miami Dolphins quarterback, missed six games of the 2024 NFL season. A concussion in the second game put the former Alabama All-American on injured reserve for four games, and he missed the final two with a hip issue that the team and quarterback purposefully presented in ambiguous terms.
Because Tagovailoa sustained two concussions and missed five games during the 2022 season, the 2024 setback sparked concerns about his long-term health and whether he should continue to play.
During an appearance on KKEA-FM in Honolulu on Thursday, the quarterback’s father, Galu Tagovailoa, stated that his son loved football too much to quit.
“He loves the game,” Galu Tagovailoa remarked. “One of the things I said to him while he was recovering from his injury was, “Hey, what do you think?” And he says, ‘Dad, I adore this game, and I’d die on the field for it.’ So that clarifies everything for me. But, as a father, you’re like, “Man, you need to take care of your health.” That is the most crucial thing. You have a family. I got to talk to him about my two gorgeous grandchildren. Consider this.
“His wife is a lovely lady who cares deeply about his health.” And she tells him, “I want to live a long life with you.” We need to make sure we do the correct thing. But, you know, Tua grew up in an environment where everything was so competitive. He doesn’t want to leave the game. I mean, the kid adores it. But I believe the Lord has a plan for him, and wherever the Lord leads him, he will have to make a decision with his family.”
Tua Tagovailoa’s statement to his father sounded similar to what he told media at a press conference on Oct. 21 as he prepared to return to the Miami lineup.
“I appreciate your concern,” Tagovailoa responded. “I actually do. I adore this game and will play it until my death. “That’s it.”
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