Following his exit from last night’s loss against the Bills due to a concussion, speculation regarding the future of Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been rampant. Given his extensive history of head injuries, many are questioning whether this latest brain trauma could signal the end of Tagovailoa’s NFL career. 
Last night’s incident was another terrifying moment for those following Tagovailoa’s journey in Miami. After a tackle from Damar Hamlin, who has a history of causing scary injuries, Tagovailoa displayed signs of unconsciousness on the ground with a fencing response. This was the second time in two years such a scene had occurred.
In a Week 3 game against the Bills in 2022, Tagovailoa left due to a back injury before returning to finish the game. Concerns were raised about potential concussion protocol violations, but he was back on the field for the following week. In the Week 4 game against the Bengals, Tagovailoa experienced the fencing response for the first time after a sack, leading to an exit and a two-game absence. He later missed the last two games of the season due to concussion protocol.
After a healthy 2023 season, Miami awarded Tagovailoa with a four-year, $212.4MM extension, with $167.17MM in guarantees. Despite worries about his frequent brain injuries potentially ending his career, Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald examined the financial implications.
It is highly unlikely that the Dolphins would part ways with Tagovailoa if he is medically cleared. They extended him with the belief that he would be their future quarterback, a stance they are likely to maintain if he can return, especially after his successful 2023 season. Releasing a healthy Tagovailoa would result in $83.65MM in dead money for the team.
If the 26-year-old passes a physical but chooses to retire, the Dolphins would incur $33.6MM in dead money, spread across the 2025 and 2026 seasons. This scenario is also unlikely, as Tagovailoa would be forfeiting a substantial amount of guaranteed money. Despite concerns for his well-being, the recent extension makes a sudden end to his NFL career improbable. Adjustments may be made to reduce his playing time if injuries persist, but with significant financial commitments, both Tagovailoa and the Dolphins are likely to work together on a path forward.
