Report: Tua clears concussion protocol, doctors confident of return

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has cleared the concussion protocol, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Tagovailoa has met with several medical professionals during the process, and they're confident he'll be 100% healthy for next season, added Rapoport.

The 24-year-old has been in the protocol since suffering his second concussion of the season in Miami's loss to the Green Bay Packers on Dec. 25. He was also put into the protocol in Week 4 and missed the next two games.

Tagovailoa was sidelined for the Dolphins' final three matchups of the season, including the wild-card round. He also won't participate in the Pro Bowl Games after receiving his first career nomination.

The Dolphins were widely criticized for allowing Tagovailoa to return to their Week 3 game despite appearing disoriented and stumbling while trying to stand following a big hit. After his concussion the following week against the Cincinnati Bengals, the NFL updated the concussion protocol policy.

Miami is reportedly committed to Tagovailoa as its starter for 2023 despite the concerns about his long-term health. He produced a breakout campaign in 2022, throwing for 3,584 passing yards and 25 touchdowns against 13 interceptions in 13 starts this season.

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