Fans React to Nick Saban's 'Concerned' Response on Tua Tagovailoa's Return

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is set to return as the starter this Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals, according to head coach Mike McDaniel .

Tagovailoa has been out since Week 2, when he suffered his third concussion in two seasons during a game against the Buffalo Bills. Given the frequency of concussions in such a short time frame, many fans urged him to consider early retirement at just 26.

In the past month and a half, Tagovailoa has been focused on his health, consulting with leading medical experts nationwide. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that none of these doctors advised him to retire, ultimately leaving the decision up to Tagovailoa and his family.

On Friday's edition of " The Pat McAfee Show ," Nick Saban, Tagovailoa's former college head coach from Alabama, shared his thoughts on his decision to return and expressed "concern."

"I'm concerned that I want Tua to be safe and healthy and not have a football career that's going to impact him down the road," Saban said. "If he wants to play, which I've talked to him, and I know he wants to play, I know what kind of competitor he is, then I'm happy for him that he's having the opportunity to play, but I also pray for him that he doesn't have any issues."

Fans flooded social media with replies to Saban's words.

"Saban always knows what to say!" one fan said.

"I mean, he said exactly how it is," another wrote. I just wish he was choosing the opposite. I just wish he would see it may not have all been worth it when said and done. I hope I’m wrong."

"Nice words," added another. "Still mad as heck that Saban coach of the NFL Dolphins passed on Drew Brees and then left the team! 😡."

"Saban's insight is always spot on," one said.

Incredibly said and couldn't agree more," said another.

"Wow amazing," one fan said.

"Saban always loves his guys and wants the best for them," added another.

During Tagovailoa's time playing for the Tide, he and Saban won the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship together, defeating Georgia 26-23. Tagovailoa stepped in for a struggling Jalen Hurts to start the third quarter and delivered a walk-off, game-winning 41-yard touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith in overtime.

Tagovailoa is now in his fifth season in the NFL and fifth with the Miami Dolphins. Over his career, he's thrown for 13,122 yards, 83 touchdowns, and 40 interceptions .

Sunday's kickoff between the Dolphins and Cardinals is set for 1 p.m. ET on Fox.

Related: Tyreek Hill Urges Dolphins Fans to Help Tua Tagovailoa Slide More Amid Concussion Concerns