Now former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Tua Tagovailoa broke the news to the universe a couple of days ago that he would not be returning to Tuscaloosa. Instead, he’ll be heading to the NFL. Hearts are no doubt broken across Dixie, as the possibility of his return to the Tide arose in reports last week. Ultimately, Tagovailoa made the right call.
What did he really have to gain by returning to the Tide? With a sketchy health history as it stands, what would happen if he got hurt again? He’d continue to plummet down draft boards. At least now, he still figures to be a first round pick. So, would returning to maybe win another National Championship be worth it? I don’t think so.
And, don’t get me wrong – I’m not trying to insinuate that Tagovailoa’s the type of guy to weigh money above all else. I’m just using this as the primary example as to why I think he made the right call. This way, he’s still going to get paid. And, really – what’s left unaccomplished in the college game? Does he want a Heisman that badly? I’d be content with my National Championship and SEC Championship.
So, now the question becomes, “where does he go?” Given Tagovailoa’s injury and the season that Joe Burrow had, I think he can forget going at #1 overall. That should be fine with him, though – the Cincinnati Bengals are a long way away from competing again, and Tagovailoa would be pressured to turn things around quickly with the weight of that injury on his shoulders. So, I’ve identified five teams that would be ideal for Tagovailoa to end up with.
Ideal Landing Spots for Tua Tagovailoa in the NFL
Los Angeles Chargers – There’s a chance that Philip Rivers doesn’t return to the Chargers, but I think he does. Hell, why would you opt to start somewhere new at that age over staying with an established system you know you can be great in? If that’s the case, then this is the perfect spot for Tagovailoa to go. He wouldn’t be required to play right away, and would inherit a good offense once he is ready to play.
New England Patriots – Tom Brady is in a similar spot to Rivers. This is undoubtedly America’s worst fear. Brady retires, and Tagovailoa returns to form for the Patriots. But, really, if anyone would know how to manage his return to action, it would be Bill Belichick and that fabled Patriots organization.
Indianapolis Colts – Jacoby Brissett is a good quarterback, but is he the guy that can get the Colts to the next level and contend for Super Bowls? I think not. But, at least Tagovailoa would be afforded the luxury of time if he ended up here. Just imagine his work under Frank Reich.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Of all the teams that will probably be looking for immediate quarterback help in 2020, the Bucs are the most attractive. They were competitive in 2019, and with Bruce Arians at the helm and that explosive talent at wide receiver, Tagovailoa could do some real damage.
Pittsburgh Steelers – The need for the Steelers to develop a contingency plan for Ben Roethlisberger has never been more evident than watching the Steelers play down the stretch in 2019. With that run game and defense, Tagovailoa likely wouldn’t be asked to do too much, and would have ample time to develop.
What do you guys think? Where do you think Tua Tagovailoa will end up?
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD and #BeBetter. “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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