Tua Tagovailoa Discovers Freedom Under Mike McDaniel Following Brian Flores' Departure

Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa opens up about struggling to be himself under former coach Brian Flores but now feels happy and free under coach Mike McDaniel.

In February 2022, Mike McDaniel took on the role of head coach for the Miami Dolphins. At that time, Tua Tagovailoa, the team's quarterback, was uncertain about how to truly be himself and whether he would enjoy playing football. However, fast forward to the present day, and both Tagovailoa and the entire team are not only having fun but also happy.

During a recent interview with Michael Smith on "Get It," Tagovailoa opened up about his experience playing in the NFL under the previous coach, Brian Flores. Although Tagovailoa never mentioned Flores by name, it was clear that Flores was the only coach he had played for before McDaniel.

One of the challenges Tagovailoa faced since entering the league in 2020 was the struggle to be his authentic self. He explained that throughout high school and college, he was always taught to respect his elders and do as they say. However, he often found himself wanting to do things differently. He had to find a way to express his point of view respectfully while still being understood. This was something he grappled with during his college years and carried over into his professional career.

Tagovailoa emphasized the importance of knowing oneself beyond societal roles and expectations. He questioned whether people truly know who they are as individuals and what makes them unique. He shared that he discovered his true self last year, separate from his identity as a football player, husband, or father. Prior to that, he admitted to being a people pleaser and a yes man. However, with McDaniel as his coach, Tagovailoa felt empowered to be himself. He no longer felt the need to conform and was able to let loose, even laughing at McDaniel's jokes during team meetings. He described feeling nervous and tense all the time before, but now he feels more at ease.

Flores, who had a record of 24-25 and failed to lead the Dolphins to the playoffs in his three seasons as coach, was eventually fired. There were reports that Flores had even expressed regret over not drafting Mac Jones, who was selected by the New England Patriots, instead of Tagovailoa. The toxic culture created by Flores had various negative impacts. However, McDaniel, despite being close in age to Flores, came in and had a positive influence on Tagovailoa.

Although it required unlearning certain habits, Tagovailoa is now happy playing football again. He no longer feels pressured to be anyone other than his authentic self. He described his current professional state as fun and happy. He appreciates the freedom to be himself and to engage in open, respectful dialogue with his teammates. The joy he experiences from having fun naturally brings about happiness for everyone involved.

The Dolphins have had a strong start to the 2023 season, with a record of 5-1 in the first six games, placing them at the top of the AFC East standings. Tagovailoa's newfound ability to play and communicate freely, thanks to McDaniel's influence, seems to have brought about the change that Miami needed.

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