Tua Tagovailoa faced a bit of a career crossroads last season in the NFL when the Miami Dolphins quarterback suffered multiple concussions.

For some media and fans, it was time to consider retirement. And in comments made to reporters on Wednesday, the former Alabama QB, in fact, considered ending his football career.

Tagovailoa admitted that he considered retirement “for a time” after his multiple concussions last season but came to this conclusion: “It would be hard for me to walk away from this game with how old I am, with my son — I always dreamed of playing as long as I could to the point where my son knew exactly what he’s watching his dad do. It’s my health, it’s my body, I feel like this is what’s best for me and my family. I love the game of football. If I didn’t, I would have quit a long time (ago).”

Tagovailoa, who Miami drafted fifth overall in 2020, beyond the concussions enjoyed a breakout season in 2022 with career-highs in passing touchdowns, passing yards and passer rating. He led the Dolphins to an 9-8 record, a second-place finish in the AFC East and their first playoff berth since 2016. Miami lost to Buffalo in the wild card round of the playoffs.