NFL fans were suspicious of the Dolphins’ fishy explanation for an apparent Tua Tagovailoa concussion

The Dolphins came away from Sunday’s early afternoon action by beating the juggernaut Bills (+4.5) — one of the biggest wins in recent franchise memory. They even won despite a hilarious “Butt Punt” that might have played into their favor in the end. But their explanation for a Tua Tagovailoa injury might cloud what they accomplished after finishing a 3-0 start to their season.

After a hit from Buffalo’s Matt Milano forced Tagovailoa to leave the game for a bit late in the first half, it sure seemed like the Dolphins’ signal-caller suffered a concussion of some sort. He certainly didn’t seem to be doing well when he stumbled some after the blow:

Tagovailoa would return to the game, suggesting the NFL’s concussion protocol probably has little actual weight. In the post-game, Tagovailoa said he feels “good.” What’s more, he said he injured his back, and that’s why he stumbled around. Huh?

Yeah, while that’s certainly possible from this non-medical professional’s opinion, I’m not buying it. It sounds more like a company line from Tagovailoa to cover for a questionable concussion check rather than a “real” back injury.

The NFLPA seems to agree, and they will now be investigating the Dolphins:

Oh, man. That doesn’t sound great at first glance. Let’s remember that the Dolphins’ initial report on Tagovailoa’s status was a head injury, too:

Whatever happens with Tagovailoa and the Dolphins’ (nonexistent?) concussion check, this might only be the start of a shameful story about failing to protect a player’s health.

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