Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, a stark reality underscored this preseason as all 32 teams have faced significant setbacks. Key players have sustained serious injuries, impacting their availability for the upcoming season and causing considerable disruption to team preparations.
Notable Player Injuries
Among the most grievous injuries, Moore, recently traded to Atlanta, suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. His departure from the practice field, highlighted by an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility, paints a vivid picture of the severity of his condition. Moore is anticipated to return in 2025.
Similarly, Trice, the Falcons' No. 74 overall pick, tore his ACL in his first preseason game. This blow has sidelined him for the entire season, with expectations for his return also set for 2025. Joining him in this unfortunate trend is Evans, who will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, with hopes pinned on a 2025 comeback.
Williams, who suffered an ACL tear during training camp, faces the same timeline, targeting a return in 2025. The loss of these players promises to be a significant challenge for their respective teams as they navigate the season without their contributions.
Mid-Season Returns and Optimistic Outlooks
Not all injuries spell a complete season on the sidelines. Milano is dealing with a torn biceps, but there is optimism surrounding his recovery. His return is optimistically scheduled for December, providing a potential boost to his team during crucial late-season games. Herbig, suffering from a torn rotator cuff, also aims for a December return, bringing some hope to his team's medical and training staff.
On a shorter timeline, Curtis Samuel's turf toe has him considered "week to week," with an anticipated return by Week 2. Meanwhile, MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a Week 2 preseason victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to be back on the field by Week 3.
Hamstring and Other Injuries
Hamstring injuries, a common yet troublesome issue, claim notable names like Dane Jackson and Brooks, who are likely sidelined until Week 4. The Bengals' first-round pick is coping with a strained pectoral muscle from their first preseason game and is expected to return by Week 2. Warren, who faced a hamstring setback in a preseason match against the Bills, is aiming for a Week 1 return.
Chubb’s knee injury continues to be a lingering concern. After multiple surgeries, his return is not anticipated before Week 5, and he remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list since Week 17, eyeing a potential return by Week 8. Tennessee’s No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are similarly targeting a Week 1 return after dealing with knee issues early in August.
Season-Long Absences
Some players face an even longer road to recovery. Higbee, due to ACL and MCL injuries, won’t rejoin his team until Week 15. McCarthy’s torn meniscus keeps him out until 2025, adding to the list of players facing season-long absences.
Positive Developments
Despite the heavy injury toll, there are positive notes. Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off PUP last week and is expected back by Week 1. This early return is a significant morale boost for his team, eager to integrate him back into the lineup. Additionally, Lions' second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury this month, but it is "not expected to be a serious issue."
Preseason injuries have undoubtedly disrupted evaluations and preparations. With many key players sidelined, coaches and staff are forced to adapt, balancing between managing game strategies and ensuring a smooth rehabilitation process for their injured players.
As the NFL season kicks off, the resilience of these athletes and their teams’ ability to adapt will be closely watched. Maintaining player health and managing returns from injuries will play a pivotal role in shaping the fortunes of many franchises throughout the season.