The season that broke the NFL's concussion protocols
In short: The 2022 Miami Dolphins season was a rollercoaster of historic highs and controversial lows. From a record-breaking comeback against the Ravens to a late-season collapse, the year became a flashpoint for how the league manages player safety and high-stakes pressure.
The 2022 campaign marked a significant era for the Miami Dolphins, beginning with the acquisition of three-time All-Pro Tyreek Hill and the debut of head coach Mike McDaniel. By defeating the New England Patriots, McDaniel secured a historic victory, marking the initial time a Dolphins manager has won a debut since Nick Saban did in 2005. The team quickly established itself as a powerhouse, securing an 8–3 start—their best since 2001—and reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2016. This run included a stunning 42–38 comeback victory against the Baltimore Ravens, where Tua Tagovailoa orchestrated four touchdown drives in the final quarter to overcome a 21-point deficit. However, the season became defined by a series of high-profile injuries to Tagovailoa. After a Week 4 concussion prompted the NFL to change its protocols, the team faced intense scrutiny for how it handled his subsequent injuries. In a Week 10 game against the Bengals, Tagovailoa was carted off the field after a hit, and the organization was criticized for initially labeling it a back injury. This led to significant backlash regarding the team's transparency and the league's concussion management. These injuries forced the Dolphins to rely on backups like Teddy Bridgewater and 7th-round pick Skylar Thompson, leading to a late-season collapse where the team lost five consecutive games. Despite the turmoil, the season was filled with unique milestones. The Dolphins reached a franchise milestone by securing their 500th win against the Pittsburgh Steelers, a game that also honored the 50th anniversary of the 1972 undefeated team. The season also produced viral moments, such as the "Butt Punt" against the Buffalo Bills and a rare game where the team failed to record a single punt. Ultimately, the Dolphins finished with a 9–8 record, matching their previous year's total and securing a playoff berth that felt like a hard-won victory over a season of instability.
Following his first win, Tua Tagovailoa joined Nick Saban in 2005 as the only Dolphins managers to succeed in their inaugural game. The Dolphins won their 500th franchise victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The team suffered a late-season collapse, losing five straight games. The Dolphins' 2022 season was their 53rd in the NFL.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: 2022 Miami Dolphins season
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