As NFL training camps get underway, several major teams are already dealing with significant player injuries, which could impact their early season performances and strategies.
Buccaneers Face Early Setbacks
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been particularly hard-hit by injuries. Rookie pass rusher YaYa Diaby was carted off the practice field with a high-ankle sprain on Thursday. Diaby, who is expected to be a crucial element in Tampa Bay's defensive front, now faces a recovery period that temporarily sidelines him from action.
Adding to the woes, guard Sua Opeta suffered a torn ACL, ruling him out for the entire season. Opeta, who had signed a one-year deal with Tampa Bay and was in contention for the starting left guard spot alongside Ben Bredeson, leaves a significant void. Ben Bredeson has since taken over the reps with the starters in Opeta's absence. The offensive line, already missing key players like Matt Feiler and Aaron Stinnie from last season, now faces additional hurdles in maintaining its form.
Chiefs Look to Reinforce Their Roster
The Kansas City Chiefs have also felt the injury bug, although to a lesser extent. Veteran pass rusher Nick Bolton exited practice early with an apparent arm injury. Bolton missed time last season due to wrist surgery, raising concerns about his durability for the upcoming season. However, the Chiefs have bolstered their wide receiver lineup by adding several new players, including first-round pick Xavier Worthy, providing some positive news amid the injury concerns.
Cowboys' Defense Takes a Hit
The Dallas Cowboys are grappling with the loss of Sam Williams, who suffered a torn ACL during Sunday's practice and will be placed on injured reserve. Williams was expected to support the formidable pass-rushing duo of Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence, leaving the Cowboys' defense with a significant gap to fill.
Injuries Across Other Teams
The San Francisco 49ers' Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon and will sit out the season, impacting their defensive lineup. Similarly, the Baltimore Ravens are monitoring the situation of Rashod Bateman, who left Monday's practice after sustaining a hit to the rib/stomach area. Coach John Harbaugh described the issue as "merely soreness," suggesting the injury may not be severe.
Cincinnati Bengals' Sam Hubbard was carted off Sunday’s practice field with a knee injury. Early reports indicate that the knee injury is not considered serious, offering a glimmer of hope for the Bengals' defensive unit. Meanwhile, Darious Williams of the Los Angeles Rams is sidelined with a hamstring strain. Rams' head coach Sean McVay assured, "The team will not rush him back and will take it 'a week at a time.'"
Saints and Bills Deal with Hamstring Issues
Kendre Miller left the New Orleans Saints' first camp practice with a hamstring injury. Last season, Miller appeared in just eight games. Head coach Dennis Allen did not mince words about Miller's situation, suggesting the running back needs to "figure out how to stay healthy." This candid remark underscores the mounting frustration surrounding Miller's ongoing fitness issues.
Ty Johnson of the Buffalo Bills is also dealing with a hamstring injury, sitting out Tuesday's practice. Johnson has been in the rotation for the No. 2 running back position alongside rookie Ray Davis. Starter James Cook recently returned to practice after a brief personal leave, which adds some stability to the Bills' backfield.
More Injury Concerns for the Bears
The Chicago Bears have seen Nate Davis miss several sessions with an undisclosed muscle strain, while Justin Watson is dealing with a foot injury. Watson, who had a career-high 460 receiving yards in 2023, is a notable absence. His sidelining opens the door for third-year player Skyy Moore to step up and possibly make a significant impact.
As teams navigate these injuries, the early part of the NFL season will undoubtedly be shaped by how effectively they manage their rosters and adjust their strategies. The true test will be in how these franchises adapt and overcome these pre-season setbacks.