Tua Tagovailoa is not letting external factors affect him.
Miami is one of a few NFL teams trying to enhance its quarterback position. The Dolphins have been linked for a while to trade rumors for Deshaun Watson. Teams want a splash move for fans to get behind, but Watson is facing 22 active cases of sexual assault against him.
Regardless of national media criticism, Tagovailoa had one message for reporters after Wednesday’s practice.
Tua Tagovailoa: I don’t base my emotions about who says anything about me. I can only do my job. It’s out of my control but I have the utmost confidence and trust that I am the quarterback of this team. Just off conversations that I’ve had with Flo…I feel very confident pic.twitter.com/H6vMKKjnNM
— Brendan Tobin (@Brendan_Tobin) October 27, 2021
“I don’t base my emotions on who says anything about me,” he said. “I can only do my job. It’s out of my control, but I have the utmost confidence and trust that I am the quarterback of this team. Just off conversations that I’ve had with Flo…I feel very confident.”
Tagovailoa keeps the conversations between him and Coach Brian Flores to himself.
He has been excellent since returning from injury. Tagovailoa completed 75 percent of his passes (65-of-87) for 620 yards and six touchdowns combined against the Jaguars and Falcons. Despite Miami coming up short, neither of the losses are his fault.
His teammates love him, especially Mike Gesicki and Jaylen Waddle. He has been the most scrutinized young quarterback; however, Tagovailoa’s confidence has not been hit. The Dolphins need to upgrade its offensive line, as the protection for Tagovailoa has not been consistent. We will see what happens moving forward, but Tagovailoa believes he’s the guy.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
