Why Tua Tagovailoa won't use Guardian Cap post-concussion? Understanding Dolphins QB's decision
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is set to make his return to practice on Wednesday, October 23, following a concussion suffered during a game against the Buffalo Bills in September. Despite his recent head injury, Tagovailoa has decided against wearing a Guardian Cap , a protective helmet cover designed to reduce the impact of head injuries.
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Tua Tagovailoa won't wear Guardian Cap upon return
In a recent interview, when Tagovailoa was asked about the possibility of wearing a Guardian Cap—a protective headgear that has gained traction in the league—his response was a firm “nope.” The quarterback clarified that this decision was based on “personal choice,” reflecting the sentiments shared by many players regarding the new safety equipment. Despite the NFL 's push for these caps to enhance player safety, particularly to mitigate head injuries, Tagovailoa is among those opting out of using them.
Guardian Caps are designed to reduce the impact of head collisions, with studies indicating they can lower the force of such impacts by 10% when at least one player is wearing one, and by 20% when all players involved are protected. This initiative was introduced as part of the NFL's broader commitment to player safety, particularly in light of increasing concerns over concussions. Although several players have adopted the Guardian Cap, many, including Tagovailoa, have cited reasons such as comfort and aesthetics for not wearing them.
Since 2022, the NFL has mandated the use of these caps during contact practices for most player positions, leaving quarterbacks, kickers, and punters exempt. There are also six types of helmets approved for use during practices that do not require the Guardian Caps, highlighting the league's ongoing efforts to balance player safety with comfort.
Tagovailoa has now been cleared by medical professionals to return to play after a thorough evaluation following his latest concussion, which occurred due to a hit from Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin . If he successfully navigates the NFL's concussion protocol after his practice session on Wednesday, he is expected to take the field against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, September 27.
The potential for concussions to lead to severe long-term health issues, such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), underscores the importance of player safety measures. According to the Mayo Clinic, CTE can result in cognitive impairment and mood disorders, making Tagovailoa's choices, and those of his peers, all the more significant in this evolving landscape of the NFL. As Tagovailoa prepares to return, the focus will not only be on his performance but also on the broader implications for player safety in the league.
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