Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s future is uncertain as concerns mount regarding his history of concussions. The most recent incident, his third concussion in 24 months, occurred during a game against the Buffalo Bills in September 2023 and left him unable to walk.
This latest injury has reignited discussions about Tagovailoa’s long-term health and the possibility of retirement.
Tagovailoa’s situation draws attention to the financial implications of such a decision. In July 2024, he signed a lucrative four-year contract extension worth $212.4 million, with $167.1 million guaranteed.
The details of this contract become crucial in understanding the potential financial ramifications of his retirement.
Should Tagovailoa retire due to injury, he could be entitled to the full guaranteed portion of his contract, approximately $167 million. However, a non-injury-related retirement could significantly reduce the payout, potentially leaving him with around $90 million, in addition to his signing bonus.
The Dolphins might also seek to recoup a portion of the signing bonus depending on the retirement agreement.
Throughout his career, Tagovailoa has battled multiple concussions, including two documented incidents in 2022 – one in Week 4 against the Cincinnati Bengals and another in Week 16 against the Green Bay Packers – prompting calls from former players and analysts to prioritize his health. The risks associated with repeated head injuries are severe, and some believe retirement is the safest course of action.
If he chooses to retire, Tagovailoa would have access to NFL retirement benefits, including medical coverage, disability plans, and financial assistance. These benefits could prove invaluable given his history of concussions.
As Tagovailoa weighs his options, the financial implications are significant. He faces a difficult choice: prioritize his long-term health or risk further injury for a substantial financial payout.
His commitment to safety is evident in his efforts to improve his self-protection on the field, even training with a jiu-jitsu coach.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Tagovailoa. The coming weeks and months will reveal whether he prioritizes his long-term health or risks further injury in pursuit of a long and successful NFL career.
