The Miami Dolphins knew that Tua Tagovailoa had health concerns when they selected him with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Perhaps that’s why it’s not surprising to learn that Tagovailoa’s health continues to play a role in his progression at the next level. According to Dolphins head coach Brian Flores, the team’s coaching staff is taking it slow with the prized rookie despite his clean bill of health.
“That is definitely part of the conversation – for sure,” Flores said of Tagovailoa on Tuesday.
“We’re at 10 months. It was a pretty serious injury. He looks good, though. You guys have seen him. He’s healthy. He’s moving around to his right and to his left. But yes, that’s part of the conversation.”
Up until recently, it was safely assumed that veteran quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick would start out the season at the team’s starting quarterback. In fact, the quarterback battle seemed to be all but over.
However, last week added a new wrinkle to the script when Fitzpatrick’s mother tragically passed away.
Now, with the longtime veteran out of the mix for the time being, the Dolphins are being forced to prepare for their season-opener with just Tagovailoa and fellow youngster Josh Rosen.
Based on Flores’ words on Tuesday, it seems likely that Rosen would get the nod in Week 1 if Fitzpatrick does not return to the team in time.
Hopefully, Fitzpatrick does elect to come back before the Sept. 13 matchup with the New England Patriots. However, his family is of course what matters most during this hard time.
