American · Ewa Beach, Hawaii · Born 2 March 1998American quarterback who starred at Alabama, winning a national championship, before being drafted 5th overall by Miami Dolphins in 2020 NFL Draft.
Tua Tagovailoa was born in Ewa Beach, Hawaii in 1998 to Samoan parents. The Miami Dolphins selected him fifth overall in the 2020 Draft — the highest-drafted Pacific Islander in NFL history. He suffered a hip injury in the 2020 college football championship game that raised questions about his draft position. He suffered multiple concussions during the 2022 NFL season — including one that left him visibly incapacitated on the field — generating significant controversy about the NFL's concussion protocols and return-to-play procedures. He led Miami to the playoffs in 2022. His accuracy — particularly on short and intermediate routes — is among the highest in the modern NFL when healthy.
Championship-winning throw at Alabama, left-handed accuracy, overcoming injury setbacks
How They Played
Accurate pocket passer with quick release, excellent touch on intermediate routes, mobile when healthy
Lasting Impact
First left-handed quarterback to win CFP National Championship, established Dolphins as playoff contender
Career Honours
- Pro Bowl 3x
- NFL Comeback Player candidate
- Dolphins franchise QB
- CFP National Champion
- Maxwell Award
- Walter Camp Award
- Quarterback of the Year
| Team | Period | Fee | Games |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami Dolphins | 2020–2024 | 5th overall pick, 2020 NFL Draft | 64 |
| Alabama Crimson Tide | 2017–2019 | — | 40 |
| Atlanta Falcons | 2025–2025 | 1-year, $1.3M (free agent) | 14 |
American Athletes