Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is expected to meet with neurologists on Monday, September 15, 2024, as he navigates a crucial stage in determining his future in the NFL. Reports suggest that despite suffering his third documented concussion during a recent game, Tagovailoa is not currently planning to retire.

Ian Rapaport, an NFL Network insider, stated that Tagovailoa has expressed the desire to return to the football field but emphasized that the timeline for his comeback remains uncertain due to the unique nature of each concussion and individual response to it. The 26-year-old signal-caller will rely on the expertise of medical professionals to make an informed decision about his career.

Tagovailoa sustained his most recent concussion during a collision with Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, resulting in his immediate exclusion from the game. The quarterback, who has now entered the concussion protocol three times, holds the distinction of being the only NFL quarterback to do so in the past five seasons. This has prompted concerns from various figures within the league, urging Tagovailoa to prioritize his long-term health and contemplate retirement.

While retirement remains an option for Tagovailoa, he will first undergo evaluations with neurological specialists before making any final decisions. The Miami Dolphins and coach Mike McDaniel have entrusted the player and his medical team with full autonomy, allowing them to determine the best course of action.

Notably, Tagovailoa contemplated retirement after the 2022 season but ultimately decided to continue playing due to his love for the game. In an April 2023 statement, he expressed his passion for football and his desire to continue playing, especially considering the goal of being a presence in his son's life as he grows up.

Dr. Allen Sills, the NFL's chief medical officer, expressed confidence in the Dolphins' medical staff and their approach to managing Tagovailoa's injury. While protocols exist to ensure a proper recovery from concussions, specific guidelines regarding predicting future risks and cumulative concussion numbers are still a subject of debate within the medical community.

The quarterback, since his return in the 2023 season, has been wearing the best possible helmet for enhanced protection, as confirmed by Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports.

The upcoming meeting with neurological specialists will likely shed light on Tagovailoa's future in the NFL. As the quarterback's decision hangs in the balance, it is crucial to remember that his legacy extends beyond his career as a football player, emphasizing his roles as a father and husband.

As the situation unfolds, the NFL community will eagerly await updates on Tagovailoa's health and professional plans, recognizing the importance of proper medical evaluation and player well-being in determining his future in the sport.