What happens if Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa retires after concussion?

In 2022, multiple concussions suffered by Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threatened to derail his young NFL career. It was scary enough that he admitted to reporters in April 2023 that he had some tough conversations with his family about the possibility of retiring from the sport.

After a healthy 2023 season, it seemed Tagovailoa had turned a page with a body transformation coupled with martial arts training aiming to avoid head injuries. The Dolphins seemingly believed the injuries were in the past too, dishing out a four-year, $212.4 million extension to the quarterback after his first Pro Bowl year.

But on Thursday night, Tagovailoa’s concussion concerns were brought back to center stage.

A headfirst collision with Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin caused another serious concussion that ended Tagovailoa’s night, and — considering his alarming history of head injuries — raises questions about his future in the sport.

Can Tagovailoa, who already received a “life-changing” contract in July, continue to put himself in position to take more hits? And if he opts to retire, where does that leave the Dolphins?

One way or another, Miami is likely on the hook for the majority of Tagovailoa’s massive extension, no matter what decision is made.

In 2019, the Indianapolis Colts had an avenue to try to recoup a significant amount of money owed to quarterback Andrew Luck when he abruptly retired due to injuries. However, the team waived its right to get back bonuses owed to Luck and allowed him to keep the entire sum.

The contract figures for Tagovailoa are much, much bigger, though. With $167 million of his deal guaranteed for injury, the quarterback would be entitled to $125 million more than the $42 million that has already been paid out if he’s medically forced to retire.

Even if he’s cleared to return and chooses to retire on his own accord, the Dolphins will still reportedly be on the hook for another $90 million.

How the money owed to the quarterback and the subsequent salary cap hits would be spread across the remaining years on the contract is a question that looms large if Tagovailoa steps away.

For now, the one and only priority for the Dolphins is the health of Tagovailoa who was “in good spirits” after the game, according to Mike McDaniel, and is set to undergo further evaluation Friday.