While it seemed entirely like a possibility, especially after multiple head injuries, those in the sports world were shocked to find out that Tua Tagovailoa had considered stepping away from the game he loves. On Wednesday, Tagovailoa told a group of reporters that he considered retirement after being diagnosed with a second concussion during the 2022 NFL season.
After some difficult conversations with his loved ones, Tagovailoa decided that he ultimately couldn’t walk away from the game just yet, knowing that he’s just 25 years old and the fact that he wants his son to be able to see him play. Those were the biggest determining factors in his decision, along with his love for the game of football.
Tua says he considered retirement “for a time” after his multiple concussions last season but:
“it would be hard for me to walk away from this game with how old I am, with my son — I always dreamed of playing as long as a could to the point where my son knew what he’s watching”
— Marcel Louis-Jacques (@Marcel_LJ) April 19, 2023
Tagovailoa acknowledged that in speaking with multiple independent neurologists, he was informed that CTE is not a concern for him, considering the blows he suffers to the head are few and far between then that of an offensive lineman, linebacker or running back.
As he works on getting back on the field, Tagovailoa has practiced jiu-jitsu, in order to learn how to properly fall. Both of the diagnosed concussions he suffered were because his head bounced on the turf. Clearly, Tagovailoa was concerned about his health but remains motivated to continue playing at a high level in this league.
Those in the sports world reacted to the insane Tua Tagovailoa news on social media:
Miami has to be in the QB market when Tua is saying stuff like this shortly after turning 25. https://t.co/lcM3LTVO4P
— John Miller (@JohnMillerNBC26) April 19, 2023
"I always dreamed of playing as long as I could to where my son knew exactly what he was watching his dad do."
I'll never understand how people can dislike this guy. The vitriol directed at him from fans & media members has never been fair or warranted.
He's also a damn good QB https://t.co/dynBs8ZmIS
— Matt Infante (@MattInfante) April 19, 2023
Please keep this man healthy. https://t.co/IE15pKcOCo
— Chris Williamson (@CWilliamson44) April 19, 2023
Man, am I rooting for Tua. This season is a big test for his future though, has to stay healthy or do what's best for his health & life.
For the #Dolphins it's pretty surprising they didn't take a bigger look at the QB position this offseason since they have a guy that… https://t.co/VpEcUDMyD1— The GOAT House (@GoatHouseNFL) April 19, 2023
His statement even gave him more reason to retire imo… I think his son would rather his dad be healthy. https://t.co/tLxAIdBVwa
— Shaun 🔔 (@CoachShaunBell) April 19, 2023
I’ll be rooting for Tua Tagovailoa this year but I hate that I’m going to hold my breath when he drops back. #NFL https://t.co/4tYDEQfGip
— Michael Hauff (@TheFFRealist) April 19, 2023
I mean, when you consider retirement…I don’t think the thought ever goes away after that so this’ll be interesting to follow the next few years. https://t.co/eaLpg1pbhA
— Austin (@Austin_Konenski) April 19, 2023
Injuries are concerning, especially head injuries. Nothing wrong with putting you first. Family before football. https://t.co/BNxyUGcfTQ
— lauren⚜️ (@thelaurensmith_) April 19, 2023
