Miami Dolphins star Jonnu Smith has dubbed Tua Tagovailoa the best quarterback in the world after he led his team to a much-needed win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.
Tagovailoa was making his fourth start since coming back from his fourth career concussion, which he suffered in the Week 2 defeat to the Buffalo Bills. The injury sparked calls for the former Alabama standout to retire, but he has decided to continue playing after consulting with doctors.
He was in impressive form for the Fins on Sunday, completing 28 of 36 passes for 288 yards and three touchdowns in a 34-19 victory at Hard Rock Stadium. The win saw Miami improve to 4-6 on the season, keeping hopes of reaching the playoffs alive.
Former Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons tight end Smith had a huge day himself, hauling in six catches for 101 yards and two touchdowns. The 29-year-old gave the credit to his quarterback.
We have the best quarterback in the world, man, Smith told reporters. It makes things a lot easier for everybody else. Those guys who came in when he was down, they did a great job and helped us as much as they could and showed a lot of grit and selflessness.
Were happy to have those guys, man, but [Tagovailoa] is who he is for a reason, so were just excited to have him back and excited to get back to where we need to be.
Tagovailoa suffered his latest concussion in the September defeat to the Buffalo Bills (
Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Tagovailoa, 26, suffered his latest concussion in the 31-10 defeat to the Bills on Sep. 12 after absorbing a heavy hit from defensive back Damar Hamlin while trying to scramble for a first down.
With his history of head injuries, huge concern for Tagovailoas well-being emanated from across the football community. He faced widespread calls to retire to avoid risking further damage and potentially compromising his quality of life down the line.
But after a month on injured reserve and numerous conversations with doctors and family members, the former No. 5 overall pick was comfortable with returning to the field. Ahead of last weeks victory over the Los Angeles Rams, he insisted retirement was never a serious consideration.
It never stuck in my mind that I was ever thinking of retiring, he said. Whether the doctors told me that or not, it would have just been information for me.
The Dolphins are two games back from the final AFC wildcard berth with seven games to go. They have a 12 per cent chance of making the playoffs, according to Next Gen Stats, although those odds will certainly improve if they can claim a third straight victory when they face the New England Patriots at Hard Rock Stadium in Week 12.