Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel has announced that star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has cleared concussion protocol following an injury sustained on September 12th, and is set to lead the offense this Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.

“Tua went through the medical process, practiced with some contact this week, and then met with an independent doctor who confirmed he’s clear from concussion protocol. He’s excited, and the team is thrilled to have him back,” McDaniel stated in a press conference.

Tagovailoa’s recent concussion, his fourth since joining the NFL, occurred during Week 2 against the Buffalo Bills. The injury kept him sidelined for four games and led him to consult with independent specialists to assess the risks of continuing his NFL career.

McDaniel noted that the doctors’ assessments were positive, ensuring the 26-year-old quarterback that he could remain active without additional risk.

“Tua met with a host of doctors and specialists — a very long list of experts — and none advised him against playing football. He’s done an outstanding job focusing on controlling what he can control,” McDaniel added.

Selected in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Tagovailoa had previously suffered three concussions during the 2022 season, one of which forced him to miss that year’s playoffs.

Despite his concussion history, Tagovailoa confirmed that he will not wear the Guardian Cap — an optional padded helmet cover approved by the NFL to reduce concussion risk, worn by a small number of players this season.

“I’m not going to wear it; it’s a personal choice. There are risks in everything. I mean, how much risk do we take each morning when we drive to work? You could have a car accident. I’m willing to play with those odds,” Tua commented earlier this week.