Good news for the Miami Dolphins: Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is likely to return to the field at some point this calendar year, head coach Mike McDaniel told reporters on Monday. Tagovailoa, who suffered a concussion against the Buffalo Bills on September 15, was placed on injured reserve two days later.
Tagovailoa can return to practice on Oct. 23 after his stint on the injured list ends, but McDaniel said he is unlikely to return this week.
“As far as timelines go, I know he won’t play this week,” McDaniel said at a news conference. “I hope to see him play football in 2024, but wherever exactly it is, we will let the process continue.”
Given his concerning history of concussions, Tagovailoa has been meeting with experts to discuss his future potential in the NFL, but has reportedly said he has no plans to retire. McDaniel said Monday that Tagovailoa could seek additional experts this week.
“We’ll make sure we’re diligent this week and evaluate afterward,” McDaniel said.
Without Tagovailoa, the Dolphins’ offense has been struggling, going 0-3 in the weeks following the 26-year-old quarterback’s injury. Tyler Huntley, whom the Dolphins acquired after placing Tagovailoa on IR, has struggled in his last two games, throwing for 290 yards, no touchdowns and one interception.
Miami had a bye last weekend and will face the Indianapolis Colts next Sunday.
