The Dolphins' Tua Tagovailo practiced fully for the first time, now moving into the final phase of the concussion protocol

Tua Tagovailoa returned to practice Wednesday, more than a month after the quarterback's third documented concussion in two years kept him out of action for the Miami Dolphins. On Thursday, Tagovailoa practiced in full for the first time, a huge step in his journey back from concussion protocol. He is now eligible to meet with an independent neurological consultant, and if he is cleared after that meeting, Tagovailo can return to the game.

He won't be without head protection, despite recently refusing to use it The NFL's soft-shell Guardian CapESPN and NFL media are reporting Tagovailoa's VICIS helmet is the “safest” of the standard options for quarterbacks.

Specifically, Tagovailoa wears the VICIS ZERO2 MATRIX ID helmet, which is designed for quarterbacks, according to ESPN. It's apparently rated higher in protection than other helmet models, even factoring in the added soft-shell covering of the Guardian Cap.

Newly allowed this year as a safety measure for the season, Guardian Caps are currently believed to be in place Reduce injuries by 46%And some Dolphins personnel, including head coach Mike McDaniel, approached Tagovailoa about using added coverage during his recovery, according to NFL Media.

Tagovailoa, however, was blunt when asked earlier this week what he wants to do.

“No,” the quarterback told reporters, declining to elaborate. “Personal preference.”

Tagovailoa played down the risk of returning to the football field, though some medical experts cautioned about the first-round draft pick's history of head injuries. A possible retirement should have been requested.

“I appreciate your concern,” Dr. Tagovailoa. “[But] I love this game and I will love it to my death.”

The former Pro Bowler is expected to return to center for the Dolphins for Sunday's Week 8 matchup with the Arizona Cardinals after a four-game absence. He previously missed four games in the 2022 season due to injury.