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NFL Hall of Famer says it’s time for Tua Tagovailoa to retire after latest concussion

Originally posted on Touchdown Alabama Magazine
By Stephen M. Smith | Last updated Sep 14, 2024 10:42 AM ET

A huge decision is in play for Tua Tagovailoa after Thursday’s game against the Buffalo Bills.

The former Alabama quarterback suffered a concussion for the Miami Dolphins, an injury that is becoming a pattern.

Tagovailoa dealt with head and neck issues in 2022, but he was able to stay healthy in 2023 and produced strong numbers — including 4,624 passing yards and 29 touchdown passes.

He made his first Pro Bowl and got a contract extension from the Dolphins, but old problems came back for the native Hawaiian.

Tony Gonzalez, a NFL Hall of Fame member, said it is time for Tagovailoa to look at retirement.

Gonzalez was a legendary tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs and Atlanta Falcons, making 14 Pro Bowls, earning six first-team All-Pro honors, being on the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team, and is in the Chiefs’ Ring of Honor.

Tony Gonzalez says Tua should retire. pic.twitter.com/Xra5SeO0r2

— Underdog (@UnderdogFantasy) September 13, 2024

Tagovailoa will forever be remembered as a passing prodigy at the Elite 11 and giving Alabama fans “2nd and 26” to defeat Georgia on a 41-yard, game-winning touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith in the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship Game.

Does he take this opportunity to retire? It remains to be seen, but he has a decision to make.

This article first appeared on Touchdown Alabama Magazine and was syndicated with permission.

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