Tua On Recovery Timeline: ‘My Name Is Samantha. I Am Twelve Years Old.’

Speaking to reporters for the first time since his concussion, Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins star quarterback, answered questions, and spoke about timeline and his eventual return. Tua approached the podium with several players, coaches, and the commissioner present in full support.

Reading from his prepared and handwritten speech, “My name is Samantha,” Tua said, holding back tears, “And, I am twelve years old.”

Head coach Mike McDaniel then spoke discussing Tua’s eventual return, “To be this good – at age twelve?” McDaniel said with a smile and pregnant pause, “it’s just – I’m amazed.”

Several media members danced around the topic but a local reporter finally pressed Tua with regard to his livelihood, well-being, and future. Roger Goodell immediately grabbed the microphone and addressed the question directly. “He said,” Goodell announced sternly, “his name is Samantha.”