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Tua 'strongest he's ever been' thanks to special training regimen
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Tua Tagovailoa 'strongest he's ever been' thanks to special training regimen

After suffering multiple concussions last season, Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa added jiu-jitsu to his training regimen this offseason. Although the method is unconventional, it's working. 

"Tagovailoa strengthened his neck and core muscles through his jiu-jitsu training, to a point where a source with knowledge of the situation told ESPN 'he's the strongest he's ever been,'" wrote Marcel Louis-Jacques of ESPN.

Aside from building more strength, jiu-jitsu has taught Tagovailoa how to fall correctly to avoid similar injuries.

"So I mean, with jiu-jitsu, I've been thrown airborne; I've been put in many uncomfortable positions for me to learn how to fall and try to react throughout those positions that I'm getting thrown around in," Tagovailoa said, per Louis-Jacques.

Tagovailoa being proactive about protecting himself and his long-term health is a smart move. Last season he suffered two concussions, including one that required hospitalization in Week 4 against the Bengals. The 25-year-old recently admitted he "considered" retirement given the severity of his injuries.

Consequently, Tagovailoa has prioritized his health and strength this offseason. Louis-Jacques noted the QB has a bigger frame, filling out from 217 pounds to 225 pounds.

If Tagovailoa remains healthy throughout next season, the Dolphins will have one of the most potent offenses in the NFL. Miami recorded the league's sixth-most yards last season, has a pair of star wide receivers in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle and a sharp offensive mind in head coach Mike McDaniel.

Also, Tagovailoa excelled in 13 games last season, posting career-highs in passing TDs (25), passer rating (105.5) and yards (3,548).

Tagovailoa's durability is paramount for the Dolphins, so it's good he's doing whatever it takes to stay on the field.  

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