Risky Business: Tua Tagovailoa’s Right To Play Versus Health Concerns

In light of recent events, the discussion surrounding Tua Tagovailoa's health has sparked significant interest and concern. While some believe in the player's right to make their own medical decisions, others argue that, due to the significance of this case, perhaps the league or management team should intervene on Tagovailoa's behalf.

Tagovailoa And The Impact Of Recurrent Concussions

Yale Medicine notes, that most people who suffer from a concussion have a favorable chance of recovering. According to the resource, athletes can safely resume their sport after following a specific protocol that guarantees complete healing before resuming play. The implications of recurrent concussions raise important questions about the long-term effects on individuals like Tagovailoa.

Not The Only One

Sources indicate that Tagovailoa has suffered from multiple concussions. According to the Miami New Times,

Upon closer reading of the article, the details become concerning.

Tagovailoa Directly Impacted Concussion Protocol

A mistake in identifying one of Tua's head injuries prompted a change in the NFL protocol. Tua displayed symptoms of a brain injury following a tackle during a game against the Bengals, a recurrence from a previous game, according to The Miami New Times .

An Alarming Reality

The significant injuries this resilient football player has faced are genuinely alarming. While a single concussion is more likely to result in recovery, repeated brain injuries both decrease the likelihood of recovery and increase the risk of permanent damage. The CDC warns that not only concussions, but also non-concussive head injuries, can potentially result in CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy). Other than the concussion events, Tua has been sacked an alarming 94 times in his young career.

While more research is necessary to draw definite conclusions, the higher probability of this outcome is concerning, particularly if Tua continues to play.

The NFL Goes Neutral

The NFL has not taken any action in either direction, leaving it up to Tua and his medical team to make decisions about his career. A source notes, "The league evaluates each player's situation based on their individual needs, deferring treatment options to the player and their doctors." While understandable, this approach raises concerns about player safety and well-being.

The Tua Tagovailoa Dilemma

Is Tua an exception to this rule, or should he be? In light of these circumstances, the decision to continue playing despite a history of head injuries appears to jeopardize Tagovailoa's well-being and future. His past decision-making has likely led to a series of incidents that have become progressively more serious. That brings into question his judgment in this regard.

Tua is set to return in the eighth week, but only if he passes all required protocol tests. At this point, one must question whether these tests are even necessary. Is it justifiable for Tua to return to the field despite the looming risks to his health and overall well-being? It's a complicated situation that brings into focus where the organization stands.

The NFL and Integrity

Integrity is a crucial aspect of the NFL's value system. According to the league ,

This is a powerful statement and underscores the intentions of the organization. Does the NFL's impartiality in Tua Tagovailoa's situation conflict with their professed commitment to acting with integrity?