Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is set to return from injured reserve this week after suffering a concussion in Week 2. If Tagovailoa clears the concussion protocol, head coach Mike McDaniel plans to start him in Week 8.
However, when asked if he would wear a Guardian Cap over his helmet, Tagovailoa gave a one-word response: "Nope."
At a news conference, the high-profile quarterback didn't elaborate on why he wouldn't wear the extra layer of protection, calling it a "personal choice". Tagovailoa also told reporters he didn't feel symptomatic the day after the head-first collision with Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, which led to his latest concussion on "Thursday Night Football."
When asked if this would change his aggressive style of play while running with the ball, Tagovailoa said he needed to be smart moving forward.
"My entire time playing football I've been a competitor and that is, or was, sort of my edge when I would run," he explained. "From high school to college I'd do the same thing. But it's a professional setting, this is the professional level with the best of the best and you can't just be doing that. So, I definitely gotta stay more available for the team, for the organization and for our guys."
While this answer sounds reassuring, it's hard to feel like Tagovailoa is approaching his return safely without considering the use of a Guardian Cap. The cap is a soft, protective helmet cover that the NFL has authorized for use during games, but since it's not mandatory, most players choose not to wear them.
Currently, the only player on the Dolphins wearing a Guardian Cap is running back De'Von Achane, who decided to wear one after returning from his own concussion.
According to the league, there was a 52% decrease in the concussion rates over the last three years for players who wore Guardian Caps compared with those who didn't. The caps were also mandated throughout this year's preseason where the NFL recorded 44 concussions — a decrease of 24% from the 2023 preseason.
Still, concussions remain a controversial problem in the NFL and Tagovailoa has been at the center of this controversy between his multiple concussions and alarming fencing response to them. Fencing is an involuntary position that occurs after a brain injury and the image of Tagovailoa on his back with his fingers awkwardly splayed out in front of him has left its mark on national audiences.
Coaches, players and pundits alike have suggested that Tagovailoa should retire and put his health first. While that decision is up to the quarterback, it's still unfortunate he didn't meaningfully address the Guardian Caps, as any widespread success of the caps will depend on star players advocating for their use.
For now, Tagovailoa is setting an alarming precedent by dismissing the Guardian Caps. And while he's said he'll play smarter, it's hard to imagine him not doing whatever he can to save the Dolphins' 2–4 season.
"I appreciate your concern, I really do," he told reporters. "I love this game, and I love it to the death of me. That's it."
