The Miami Dolphins are treading water without their franchise quarterback, but head coach Mike McDaniel is finally giving fans a reason to exhale.
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For the first time since Tua Tagovailoa's latest concussion, McDaniel expressed confidence that the QB will be back this season.
When exactly? Well, that's still up in the air, but the Week 8 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals is the earliest we could see him return.
If you've followed Tua's career, you know this isn't his first dance with head injuries. The concussion he suffered in Week 1 marked yet another hit in a growing list.
Last season, it was the same story — multiple concussions, including one in late December that effectively shut him down for the year. This time around, though, McDaniel seems more optimistic, refusing to even entertain the idea that Tua might not play again in 2024.
"I do expect to see him playing football in 2024," McDaniel told reporters. "But where that is, exactly — we'll let the process continue, since we still have time before he can even entertain anything. We'll make sure that he's diligent this week and assess after that."
In the meantime, Miami has had to scramble at quarterback. Skylar Thompson filled in early, but when he went down, the Dolphins turned to Tyler Huntley, fresh off the Ravens' practice squad.
Huntley's now the guy for the foreseeable future, and McDaniel is encouraged by his progress, especially after the team's Week 6 bye gave him more time to learn the offense.
But let's be real — Huntley is a stopgap. This team's success hinges on Tua's health.
Beyond the quarterback situation, the Dolphins' injury report is still a major concern. Bradley Chubb, their standout linebacker, remains sidelined after an ACL tear last season. Running back De'Von Achane, who suffered a concussion in Week 5, is practicing in a non-contact jersey, but his status remains up in the air. And safety Jevon Holland? He's still week-to-week after breaking his hand.
It's a delicate situation for McDaniel and the Dolphins. They're sitting tight, waiting for reinforcements, most notably Tagovailoa. McDaniel's confidence in Tua's return is great, but the reality is this — the Dolphins' season hangs in the balance. If Tua comes back healthy and sharp, this team could still make a run. If not, well, Miami could be staring at another disappointing finish.
