A narrow win for the Miami Dolphins on Sunday kept their playoff hopes alive, keeping them mathematically in the hunt for the #7 seed.
After a tough 2-6 start to the season, the Dolphins feared their 2024 campaign was slipping away, especially with concerns over Tua Tagovailoa’s recovery from his third major concussion in two years, suffered in Week 2 against the Buffalo Bills.
Tagovailoa has been crucial to the team’s success, with the Dolphins going 5-4 in his starts compared to 1-3 when he’s absent. Despite some known challenges—such as a 0-8 record in games where the temperature is 45 degrees or lower—Tua is still highly respected by his teammates.
Tight end Jonnu Smith, who is having a standout season, gave Tua high praise after the Dolphins’ 32-26 overtime win over the New York Jets, calling him “the best QB in the world.” Smith emphasized how Tua’s presence makes everything easier for the team, especially after seeing the efforts of backup players who stepped in during Tua’s absence. He expressed excitement about Tua’s return and the team’s potential moving forward.
Smith’s comments reflect the significant impact Tua has had on the Dolphins’ offensive success, as the team has averaged 27 or more points in five of their last seven games. Star receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle are also returning to form, and Miami’s offense continues to thrive under the leadership of head coach Mike McDaniel. While Tua’s claim to being the best QB in the world might be debatable, his importance to the Dolphins’ success is undeniable.
Tua was rewarded for his performances this offseason with a four-year, $212 million deal, including $167 million in guaranteed money through 2028.
