by Matthew Mejia
Recently, the Miami Dolphins have experienced a mix of successes and struggles that have fans discussing the future of their team. As they work to become a top contender, one big question that stands out is should they move on from Tua Tagovailoa as their starting quarterback? Though Tua has shown many signs of being a great player, his health problems should raise concerns for many.
One of the biggest worries for Tua is his history of injuries. He has suffered multiple concussions in recent years, which not only threaten his career but also his long-term health. In specific we should look at the 2022 season where Tua experienced multiple serious concussions that sparked national debates about player safety in football. These injuries jeopardize his playing career now and in the future and his health for years after he retires from the NFL.
On top of that, Tua’s choice to not wear the Guardian Cap, a special helmet designed to reduce head injuries, raises more questions from the fans. His refusal to wear this protective gear shows great concern about his attitude toward his safety while playing football.
Tua's performance can be inconsistent, often missing games due to his injuries, disrupting the team’s momentum. This forces the team to rely on backup players during critical moments such as in 2023 when they had to rely on Tyler Huntly in the playoffs. Not only while injured but also when healthy Tua has struggled in big games, often falling short under pressure.
Durability is essential for a team aiming to win the Super Bowl and focusing on that Soper Bowl right now. For the Dolphins, Tua's injury history raises significant concerns. They need a quarterback they can count on to play throughout the entire season not be out three or four games a season.
Given Tua’s track record, I believe it might be time for the Dolphins to look for new options. The NFL has many opportunities in free agency and the upcoming draft, where they could find a more durable quarterback.
The Dolphins have a great roster featuring star players like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and Jalen Ramsey. They are in a position to win now, so they need a quarterback who can stay healthy and make that deep playoff push. If the team moves on from Tua it would allow them to spend a year or two developing a younger quarterback and then try to make that last push.
Acknowledging the arguments for keeping Tua as the starting quarterback is important though. Giving Tua credit where he deserves in being able to play impressively when he is healthy, showing he can effectively lead the Dolphin's high-powered offense. He is also a strong leader who has earned the respect of his teammates.
Though some people might say that with better protection and improved game strategies, Tua could avoid further injuries, it doesn’t address the main problem of his health and that one more hit and he can be taken out permanently.
The risks that come with Tua Tagovailoa's health are significant and the Dolphins need a quarterback who can deliver more consistently. While Tua does show some signs of his talent and strong leadership skills, his injury history and inconsistency make him a way too risky choice for a team looking to win a Super Bowl right now. To secure their future success, the Miami Dolphins should seriously weigh the option of moving on from Tua and look for a quarterback who can stay healthy.
The time has come for the Dolphins to prioritize their future and make a tough decision for the good of their franchise.
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