NFLPA asks for review of NFL concussion protocols after Tua Tagovailoa return

The NFLPA has requested a review of the Miami Dolphins’ concussion protocols after quarterback Tua Tagovailoa returned to game action. Tagovailoa suffered a “head injury” in the first half against the Buffalo Bills — according to Miami — and was originally questionable to return to the game.

The former Alabama star returned to lead the team for the entire second half despite the injury after clearing concussion protocols by the Dolphins. Miami won the game 21-19 in a thrilling finish, but the quick return from a scary injury has prompted the NFLPA to look into the matter further.

NFLPA wants investigation into Tua Tagovailoa injury

“NFLPA has told the NFL that it wants to initiate a review of the concussion protocols in light of Tua Tagovailoa’s return to today’s game in Miami,” stated ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Video showed the scary moment after his injury in the first half with Tagovailoa going to the ground after being shoved by a Bills defender after throwing a pass. Tagovailoa fell backwards into the turf and appeared shaken after getting back up to his feet. While trying to run towards the huddle, Tagovailoa stumbled down to his knee after a few steps — obviously feeling the effects of the previous play.

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Despite initially calling the injury a “head injury” prior to the second half starting, reports later stated that his injury and stumble was the result of a back injury sustained on an earlier play in the game. While attempting to stand up from the ground, Tagovailoa’s back locked up on him which led to the stumble. As part of the NFL’s concussion protocols, he was taken into the locker room for a full concussion check — where he was fully cleared for a return.

According to current NFL guidelines for concussions, any player who stumbles or falls to the ground after an apparent head injury will require examination by both a team physician and an independent physician to determine if the stumble was caused by neurological injury.

“Required an evaluation for all players demonstrating gross motor instability (e.g., stumbling or falling to the ground when trying to stand) to determine the cause of the instability. If the team physician, in consultation with the sideline UNC, determines the instability to be neurologically caused, the player is designated a “No-Go” and may not return to play,” reads the NFL’s official Concussion Protocol guidelines.