Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape. This preseason has been no exception, with all 32 teams dealing with significant setbacks as key players succumb to serious injuries, impacting their availability for the upcoming season.
Among those most affected is Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason. Moore suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month, exiting the practice field with an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility. Moore is now expected to return in 2025.
Troubles for the Falcons
The Falcons have been particularly hard hit this preseason. Trice, their No. 74 overall pick, tore his ACL in his first preseason game and is anticipated to return in 2025. Adding to their woes, Evans will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, with his return also projected for 2025.
Atlanta isn’t standing alone in the injury list. Williams, who tore his ACL during training camp, is joining the group of those out until 2025. Milano suffered a torn biceps, sidelining him for the majority of the season, though there’s a glimmer of hope with his return optimistically scheduled for December.
Ongoing Setbacks
The injury bug isn't exclusive to the Falcons. Curtis Samuel is currently considered "week to week" with turf toe and is expected back by Week 2. MVS sustained a neck sprain during a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers and is likely to return by Week 3. Dane Jackson's significant hamstring injury, along with Brooks' torn ACL, are likely to keep them off the field until Week 4.
The Bengals are also dealing with their own issues. Their first-round pick sustained a strained pectoral muscle in their first preseason game and is expected to be ready by Week 2. McCarthy’s torn meniscus has him out until 2025, while Herbig’s torn rotator cuff rules him out until December.
Veterans and Rising Stars
Chubb’s knee injury from last season has already resulted in multiple surgeries, and his return isn’t anticipated before Week 5. Chubb remains on PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) since Week 17, with a potential return by Week 8. Tennessee’s No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are eyeing returns by Week 1 after suffering knee injuries early in August. Similarly, Higbee will rejoin in Week 15 due to both ACL and MCL injuries.
The Lions have been slightly luckier; their second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury this month but it’s "not expected to be a serious issue." Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off PUP last week and is expected back by Week 1. Moreover, Warren, who was sidelined in a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, is expected back by Week 1.
Looking to Recover
The coaching staff and medical teams across the league have been working tirelessly to ensure the quickest and safest returns for their players. Dave Canales, for instance, is optimistic about Brooks' return by Week 3 or Week 4, noting, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
These preseason injuries have disrupted evaluations and preparations significantly, forcing coaches and staff to adapt their strategies. The resilience and preparedness of both athletes and their support systems will be tested as the season progresses. As always, the hope is to see players recover fully and return to the field, continuing to contribute to the sport they love.