As the 2024 NFL season progresses, injuries continue to plague numerous teams, reshaping the dynamic of each week's competition. This influx of sidelined players is testing the depth of rosters across the league and compelling head coaches to adapt swiftly.
Rams and Dolphins Grapple With Key Absences
In Los Angeles, head coach Sean McVay faces the difficult task of rallying a Los Angeles Rams squad decimated by injuries. Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins have placed their standout quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, on injured reserve following another head injury sustained in a game against the Buffalo Bills. This move is a significant blow to the Dolphins' ambitions, as Tagovailoa's play has been instrumental to their offensive success.
Patriots and Jets Reeling
In the AFC East, the New England Patriots are dealing with a slew of injuries. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) are all confirmed out. In addition, center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are listed as questionable.
The New York Jets are also deeply affected, particularly on the defensive front. Linebacker Jermaine Johnson II is ruled out due to an Achilles injury, and the status of linebacker C.J. Mosley remains questionable as he grapples with a toe injury.
"His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play," the team confirmed regarding Mosley's potential involvement.
Steelers, Giants, and Browns in the Trenches
The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to take on the Los Angeles Chargers without star quarterback Russell Wilson, who is expected to miss the game. Additionally, rookie Roman Wilson's contributions may be limited by an ankle injury.
Giants fans are facing their own concerns as cornerback Nick McCloud, suffering from a knee injury, was the lone absentee from Wednesday's practice. Adding to those worries, players Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) were limited participants.
The Cleveland Browns' injury list is extensive. Tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) did not practice on Wednesday. Limited practice participants included edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee).
Head coach Kevin Stefanski provided clarity on Njoku's situation, saying, "It's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday."
Packers and Titans Putting Pieces Together
The Green Bay Packers received a boost as quarterback Jordan Love returned to practice on Wednesday. However, several other key players were limited, including running back Josh Jacobs (back) and tight end Tucker Kraft. Missing players from practice were offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf), and cornerback Carrington Valentine (ankle).
The Tennessee Titans hit a bump with running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) being the sole player unable to practice.
Bears, Colts Struggling Without Key Palayers
The Chicago Bears have been notably affected, with the absence of wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh). Head coach Matt Eberflus commented on Allen's uncertain timeline, stating, "There is no timetable regarding the return of Allen."
The Indianapolis Colts add to their injury woes with kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) featuring on their report.
Texans, Vikings, Saints Counting Cost
Not far behind, the Houston Texans saw seven players miss Wednesday's practice, including running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot
The Minnesota Vikings had limited practice from two critical offensive players: Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip).
The New Orleans Saints faced absences with linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) all sidelined. Hill's situation remains tentative as head coach Dennis Allen revealed, "The plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully." Moreover, cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) missed action in their recent dominating win over the Cowboys.
Chargers and Broncos Also Hit Hard
The Los Angeles Chargers saw quarterback Justin Herbert miss practice due to an ankle issue, further complicating their preparation. On the defensive side, Broncos' linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) are affected by injuries.
Lions Facing Defensive Deficit
For the Detroit Lions, defensive depth is being tested with four out of five players who missed practice being from the defensive side. Linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion), cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring), and offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee) did not practice. However, there was a bright spot as wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) was a full practice participant.
Overall, these injuries are becoming a defining narrative of the 2024 NFL season. With marquee players sitting out and others performing below their peak due to lingering pains, the landscape of the league is in constant flux. Teams and fans alike can only hope for speedy recoveries and fewer trips to the injured reserve as the season marches forward.