Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered a rib injury during the first quarter of Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills and had to be carted off the sideline. The initial update provided by the Dolphins said that he was questionable to return. 

Tagovailoa was taken down by Buffalo’s A.J. Epenesa during the final play of Miami’s second series. On fourth-and-2 from near midfield, the Dolphins went for it, and Epenesa was fully unblocked as Tagovailoa dropped back and drove Miami’s quarterback to the ground as he threw.

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Tagovailoa stayed on the ground for a few moments, grimacing and clutching his left side. He then stood up and attempted to make his way to the Miami sideline before collapsing. He made it to the sideline before being escorted to the Dolphins’ locker room.

Tagovailoa was replaced by Jacoby Brissett in the game. On Miami’s first series, Tagovailoa was sacked twice, then suffered a huge hit from Epenesa on the next series.

The Dolphins’ interest in controversial Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson has been rumoured since at least August, when 22 women filed lawsuits accusing him of sexual assault and harassment.

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Watson and his attorneys have vehemently rejected the allegations levelled against him. There have been no charges filed.

Coach Brian Flores has not verified allegations that the Dolphins are in discussions to move Watson, but he did say last month that he wanted guys with good character.

“There are a lot of things we weigh when we’re making decisions — fit on the team, overall talent, salary cap,” Flores said, according to Associated Press inputs. “When we’re talking about a player or players, we’re always trying to do what is best for the Miami Dolphins. There are a lot of variables. We want a group that is tough, smart, competitive, loves to play and is team first. Those are the types of guys we’re looking for.”

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Tagovailoa is coming off a hip injury that terminated his collegiate career at Alabama about two years ago. Midway through the season, his debut year in the NFL, he took over as Miami’s starting quarterback.

Meanwhile, in the game, the Dolphins were absolutely crushed by the Bills 0-35. Zack Moss rushed for two touchdowns for Buffalo.

WIth inputs from the Associated Press