Tua Tagovailoa is a full participant in Thursday's practice as he inches closer to returning for the Dolphins

Tua Tagovailoa participated fully in practice with the Miami Dolphins on Thursday, moving the quarterback one step closer to returning for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals.

Tagovailoa was limited in his return to practice on Wednesday – the first time he has participated since suffering his third concussion in two years in Week 2. With his status now elevated, Tagovailoa can receive full concussion protocol clearance after meeting with an independent neurological consultant.

Despite his recent concussion history, Tagovailoa said this week he had no plans to wear a protective cap for additional protection, saying it was a “personal decision.” He also said he needed to be “smart” in the future to avoid future injuries.

Without Tagovailoa, the Dolphins' offense has struggled to 0-3 since the 26-year-old was injured. Tyler Huntley, whom the Dolphins acquired after placing Tagovailoa on injured reserve, has struggled in his last two games, throwing for 290 yards, no touchdowns and one interception.

The Dolphins' offense as a whole has been questioned since Tagovailoa left the lineup. Miami has averaged just 10 points per game since Week 2, and their top two wide receivers – Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle – haven't topped 70 yards since both scored over 100 yards in Week 1.

Hill was excited to hear the news of Tagovailoa's return to practice and looks forward to reconnecting with him on the field like old times.