Dr. Bennet Omalu, the neurologist known for his work on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), has advised the NFL and the Miami Dolphins to retire quarterback Tua Tagovailoa due to concerns over repeated concussions. Omalu’s recommendation comes amid ongoing discussions about player safety and brain health in football. He argues that Tagovailoa’s history of head injuries could pose serious long-term health risks and believes it would be prudent for him to end his playing career to prevent further damage.
Dr. Bennet Omalu, the brain expert renowned for discovering CTE and depicted by Will Smith in the film Concussion, told Newsafro.com that he would mandate Tua Tagovailoa’s retirement if he were in charge of the NFL or the Miami Dolphins. Omalu warned that permitting the 26-year-old quarterback to return to play after his recent concussion could lead to severe and potentially irreversible consequences.
Dr. Bennet Omalu emphasized that if Tua Tagovailoa were to experience another major head injury, it could result in “permanent incapacitation.” He questioned why any organization would allow him to return to play given the substantial risk of severe, irreversible brain damage. Omalu’s stance highlights his concern for Tagovailoa’s long-term health and safety.
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel has stated that the decision regarding Tua Tagovailoa’s return is ultimately up to Tagovailoa himself, though there’s currently no set timeline for when this decision might be made. Dr. Bennet Omalu, however, has made it clear that if he were involved with Tagovailoa’s situation, he would strongly advise the player to retire for his own safety.
Dr. Bennet Omalu emphasized that if he were a close family member of Tua Tagovailoa, he would strongly urge him to retire from football. Omalu had previously suggested retirement to Tagovailoa after his severe head injury against the Bengals in 2022, highlighting his ongoing concerns about Tagovailoa’s long-term health and safety.
Dr. Bennet Omalu is now pleading with Tua Tagovailoa to seriously consider his advice and retire from football, urging him to “find something else to do” for the sake of his long-term health and well-being.
