2 min read • August 29, 2020
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Despite a significant injury history, we remain optimistic about the health of the new Dolphins quarterback. From the in-game posts on his dislocated hip before an official diagnosis was publicly released, to the surgical reports and then the numerous work out videos, no player was more chronicled, studied and followed. Often projected as the first overall pick before the 2019 season, we asserted that he should remain a top 10 pick, and Miami followed through by taking him with the 5th overall selection. His two ankle surgeries are hardly a concern in our eyes, and he is currently making great progress on his hip injury. While his hip is likely to be just shy of 100% and comes with risk of complications like long term degenerative arthritis, there are no indicators of other problems like avascular necrosis (loss of blood flow). He is moving well, and his hip should be little to no issue for the foreseeable future. What is more likely to affect his early career performance is the stunted offseason programs we’re seeing due to COVID-19. Tagovailoa was an outstandingly efficient passer at Alabama with a 69.3% completion rate and a 87-11 TD/INT ratio, two National Championship appearances in three years, and one title. However, it will take time for him to acclimate to the speed of the NFL and learn the offense. In the long term, Miami offensive coordinator Chan Gailey’s vertical spread schemes should take advantage of Tagovailoa mobility and deep accuracy, but for now Ryan Fitzpatrick will likely start the season due to his five years of experience in Gailey’s offense. Tagovailoa should be at full speed by the start of the season but teams are more likely to deploy a veteran especially under the restrictions of COVID-19.
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