As NFL training camps are in full swing, the injury bug has taken a significant toll on several key players, shaking up team dynamics just weeks before the regular season kicks off. Teams across the league are grappling with the impact of these setbacks, attempting to adjust and move forward with cautious optimism.
Quarterback Concerns
The Los Angeles Chargers were dealt a severe blow when their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert is expected to be in a walking boot for two weeks before he can begin a return-to-play protocol. However, the Chargers remain hopeful that he will be ready for the regular season. In his absence, backup Easton Stick has stepped up to take first-team reps, a crucial period for the young quarterback to demonstrate his capabilities.
In Carolina, the Panthers face their own quarterback woes as veteran Andy Dalton is sidelined for at least a couple of weeks with a quad injury. The Panthers are actively seeking to bring in additional quarterback support during Dalton's recovery, indicating their concern over the depth at this critical position.
Star Running Backs Hit Hard
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is currently dealing with a calf injury that emerged in early August. The star running back is expected to miss several weeks of practice and is unlikely to participate in any preseason games, casting doubt over his readiness for the 2024 campaign.
Similarly, the Detroit Lions' running back Jahmyr Gibbs left practice early on Monday due to a hamstring injury. The extent of his injury remains unclear, but the team will undoubtedly be monitoring his recovery closely.
Jonathon Brooks, the Panthers' rookie running back, continues his recovery from an ACL tear sustained last November. According to head coach Dave Canales, Brooks is expected to be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season, providing a bit of relief for the Panthers' backfield.
Wide Receiver Woes
The Tennessee Titans face a significant setback with wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins suffering a knee injury that will keep him out for four to six weeks. This injury comes at a crucial time as the Titans are expected to adopt a more pass-oriented offense under new head coach Brian Callahan. Hopkins' absence will undoubtedly challenge the team's offensive strategies.
The New Orleans Saints are also dealing with an injury in their receiving corps. Wide receiver Josh Downs is nursing a high-ankle sprain that occurred on August 7, putting his early-season contributions in question. Meanwhile, the Ravens' second-year receiver Puka Nacua is considered week-to-week following a knee injury sustained during practice, adding to the list of impacted wideouts.
Defensive Setbacks
The Dallas Cowboys are reeling from the news that edge rusher Sam Williams suffered a torn ACL and will miss the entire 2024 season. Williams was expected to play a supporting role behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence, making this injury particularly painful for the Cowboys' defensive depth.
The Bengals were also hit hard with news that their edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited Sunday’s practice with a knee injury. Fortunately, it is not believed to be serious, which is a sigh of relief for the team. However, they are still assessing the situation carefully.
The Indianapolis Colts face a massive loss with Samson Ebukam tearing his Achilles tendon during practice, ruling him out for the entire 2024 season. The Buccaneers are similarly affected as guard Sua Opeta is out for the year after tearing his ACL, prompting significant adjustments in their offensive line.
First-round pick Amarius Mims of the Bengals is facing several weeks off due to a pectoral strain. The injury raises concerns over his availability for the start of the regular season, posing a potential challenge for Cincinnati's lineup.
Offensive Line Challenges
The Jacksonville Jaguars are navigating issues on their offensive line with tackles Cam Robinson and Anton Harrison both sidelined. Robinson is dealing with a shoulder injury, and Harrison has entered the concussion protocol. Last season, Robinson played in only nine games due to a suspension and a knee issue, emphasizing the importance of depth and resilience in the Jaguars' offensive line.
As these injuries continue to impact rosters, head coaches across the league are navigating these setbacks with cautious optimism. As Saints' head coach Dennis Allen succinctly put it, teams need to "figure out how to stay healthy." Meanwhile, Rams coach Sean McVay emphasizes taking it "a week at a time," highlighting the day-by-day approach necessary to weather the current storm of injuries.
As teams adapt to these challenges, the focus remains on recovery and readiness for the regular season, with hopes that key players will return in time to make significant contributions. The next few weeks will be critical for adjustments, resilience, and the demonstration of depth across rosters league-wide.