Damar Hamlin Sends Heartfelt Message to Tua Tagovailoa After QB’s Concussion

With the Miami Dolphins trailing the Buffalo Bills, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa attempted to convert a fourth-and-4 from the Buffalo 13-yard line. Tagovailoa gained 7 yards to keep the drive alive, but he made the unfortunate decision not to slide at the end of the drive.

Tagovailoa collided with Bills safety Damar Hamlin and left the game with a concussion.

After missing multiple games in each of his first three seasons, Tagovailoa hasn’t missed a game in 2023 and was given a four-year, $212.4 million contract this offseason.

Just two games into the season, his status as Miami’s franchise quarterback is uncertain. Tagovailoa has now suffered three documented concussions in the last two years, and concerns about his well-being could put his playing career in jeopardy.

Hamlin, who made the tackle on Tagovailoa’s scrum, shared some kind words for the Dolphins quarterback on social media.

“My love and prayers are with (Tagovailoa) fasho. Sending you strength and healing for a speedy recovery,” Hamlin posted. “Much love, buddy.”

Hamlin was asked about the play during his postgame press conference, according to The Athletic.

“I was just trying to make a routine tackle, trying to get them off the field on fourth down,” Hamlin said.

Hamlin knows the dangers of the sport all too well. Less than two years ago, he suffered a cardiac arrest after making a similar routine tackle against the Cincinnati Bengals. Hamlin required CPR and an induced coma after collapsing on the field.

It was later discovered that the cardiac arrest had been triggered by commotio cordis, a condition in which a violent blow to the chest disrupts the heart’s rhythm at a critical point in the cardiac cycle. The condition has a 97% mortality rate if not treated within three minutes.

Tagovailoa ducked and initiated contact, bumping Hamlin’s chest. This time, it was the offensive player who couldn’t get up immediately after the play.

Like Hamlin, Tagovailoa will have to think seriously about his health and future in the coming weeks. If he ultimately decides to retire from the game, it will be hard to blame him. The risk of another head injury could have life-changing consequences long after he retires.