“Miami Dolphins Place Tua Tagovailoa on Injured Reserve Following Concussion, Skylar Thompson to Start”
The Miami Dolphins have placed quarterback Tua Tagovailoa on injured reserve after he suffered a concussion in their recent game against the Buffalo Bills. Under NFL rules, Tagovailoa is required to miss a minimum of four games, but there is no definitive timeline for his return as the team prioritizes his well-being.
This is the third concussion of Tagovailoa’s NFL career, raising concerns about his long-term health. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel held off on the injured reserve decision, awaiting further medical evaluations before finalizing it on Tuesday.
In response to Tagovailoa’s absence, the Dolphins signed quarterback Tyler Huntley from the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad. Per NFL regulations, Huntley must remain on the Dolphins’ active roster for at least three games.
McDaniel clarified that the signing was aimed at maintaining depth at the quarterback position, given the uncertainty of Tagovailoa’s recovery. He also stressed that the decision was not a reflection on third-year quarterback Skylar Thompson’s abilities, but rather a precautionary move.
Thompson, who started three games as a rookie in 2022, will now step in as the Dolphins’ starting quarterback for their upcoming matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.
Although Thompson did not play during the 2023 season, he is taking over after Tagovailoa’s injury. Despite Huntley’s addition, McDaniel confirmed that Thompson remains the starter, with Huntley serving as backup. Huntley, who has 10 career starts and was selected for the Pro Bowl in 2022, adds valuable experience to the quarterback lineup.
Tagovailoa’s injury occurred when he collided with Bills safety Damar Hamlin during a scramble, leading to worrying symptoms such as a fencing response. Although he walked off the field on his own, medical staff ruled him out for the rest of the game.
This injury increases the number of games Tagovailoa has missed due to health issues, totaling 14 since 2020. His long-term status remains uncertain as the Dolphins continue to monitor his condition.