The Miami Dolphins have made the decision to place their quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, on injured reserve after he suffered a concussion during last Thursday's game against the Buffalo Bills, according to a source close to the team. This marks the third diagnosed concussion of Tagovailoa's NFL career.

As per NFL rules, Tagovailoa will be required to remain on injured reserve for a minimum of four games. The Dolphins have not provided a specific timetable for his return to the field and are prioritizing his health and recovery during this time.

Initially, Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel had stated that Tagovailoa would not be placed on injured reserve until further information was available. However, after conducting additional evaluations, the decision was made on Tuesday to move him to the injured reserve list.

To bolster their quarterback depth in Tagovailoa's absence, the Dolphins made a move to sign quarterback Tyler Huntley from the Baltimore Ravens' practice squad. According to NFL regulations, the Dolphins must allocate a spot on their 53-man roster for Huntley for at least the next three games.

McDaniel emphasized the importance of adding depth at the quarterback position, stating that "it only takes one play and what you think your depth is changes abruptly." He sees Huntley's addition as a way to secure depth and ensure the team is prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

With Tagovailoa officially ruled out for Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks, third-year quarterback Skylar Thompson will step in as the starting quarterback. Thompson did not see any playing time during the 2023 season but started three games as a rookie in 2022, including a playoff loss to the Bills.

McDaniel clarified that the decision to bring in Huntley was not a reflection on Thompson's abilities but rather to strengthen the team's depth. Huntley, who has started 10 games in his four-year career, was named to the Pro Bowl in 2022 after stepping in for Lamar Jackson and guiding the Ravens to the playoffs.

The injury occurred when Tagovailoa was scrambling for a first down and made forcible contact with his helmet against the forearm of Bills safety Damar Hamlin. He immediately exhibited a fencing response, with his arms assuming an unnatural position. Medical trainers attended to Tagovailoa on the field before he walked off under his own power, although he was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the game.

This latest injury will bring Tagovailoa's career total of missed games due to injury to 14 since 2020. However, he managed to play in all 18 regular-season and playoff games for the Dolphins in the 2023 season.

The Dolphins organization remains committed to Tagovailoa's well-being and will provide updates on his progress as he recovers from this concussion.