Mike McDaniel, who was almost in tears seeing Tua Tagovailoa go down with concussion, kisses the QB while patting his back

Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel almost broke down in tears after quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered his latest concussion in the Bills game.

Mike McDaniel, who was almost in tears seeing Tua Tagovailoa go down with concussion, kisses the QB while patting his back

Mike McDaniel and Tua Tagovailoa (Image via IMAGO)

Mike McDaniel was already shellshocked after quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw three interceptions in the first three quarters of the game. The Miami Dolphins fell behind 10-31, but the worst was yet to come.

With just minutes left until the fourth quarter, Tagovailoa hit his head, colliding with Bills safety Damar Hamlin. The medical team tended to him as the cameras caught the Dolphins’ head coach, Mike McDaniel, fearing something bad.

Fans on social media thought McDaniel was close to shedding tears because Tua only signed a $212 million deal just a few weeks ago. And if it’s a concussion, then he might see extended time outside of the gridiron. This significantly lowers the chances of the Dolphins qualifying for the playoffs for three consecutive years.

FS Video

There was one good sign because Tagovailoa was walking on his two feet—be it gingerly. McDaniel ran to him and kissed him on the forehead for good luck as if the 26-year-old were his own son.

RELATED
“They’re not really a rival,” Kayvon Thibodeaux dismisses the Commanders as a threat to the Giants ahead of their Week 2 matchup
Kayvon Thibodeaux and Jayden Daniels

2022’s seventh-round pick, Skylar Thompson, took over from Tagovailoa, who ended the game with 17/25 for 145 yards, 1 touchdown, and 3 interceptions. Thompson looked decent in his one-quarter of football, completing 8/14 for 80 yards.

Mike McDaniel breaks silence about Tua Tagovailoa’s injury

The loss to the Bills meant the Dolphins are now 1-11 in their last 12 games against the AFC opponents. Yet, records are the least of McDaniel’s concerns because he needs to think about the team’s future. They still have 15 games left to play and have zero clue for now on how long Tagovailoa will be out on the sidelines.

Mike McDaniel, who was almost in tears seeing Tua Tagovailoa go down with concussion, kisses the QB while patting his back
Mike McDaniel (Image via ESPN)

During the presser after the game, McDaniel sat down to speak with the media, but he clearly looked too worn out to answer any questions. His voice sounded muffled as he shared his thoughts about Tagovailao’s potential concussion.

My thought was concern... I was just worried about my guy… It’s not something you ever wanna be a part of.
Mike McDaniel said

Later, Damar Hamlin, whose challenge ended Tagovailoa’s night, sent prayers and wishes for a fast recovery.

My love and prayers with Tua. Sending you strength and healing for a speedy recovery. much love broski.
Damar Hamlin wrote on X
RELATED
‘Candid’ CeeDee Lamb puts light on the impact Dak Prescott’s historic deal will have on the Cowboys
CeeDee Lamb, Dak Prescott

The Dolphins still have the option to sign free-agent veteran quarterbacks. Former Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill is still available in the market. Furthermore, they can poach players such as Josh Dobbs and Bailey Zappe who are unlikely to see game time with their current teams.