As NFL training camps advance towards the regular season, injuries have cast a cloud over several teams, impacting key players and reshaping the trajectory of their preparations.
Quarterbacks in Trouble
The Los Angeles Chargers are grappling with a significant setback as star quarterback Justin Herbert is sidelined due to a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert's injury necessitates him being in a walking boot for two weeks before starting a return-to-play protocol. Despite the setback, there is cautious optimism around his recovery, with expectations that he will be ready for the season opener. During Herbert's absence, backup Easton Stick will take on first-team reps.
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers are also facing challenges at the quarterback position. Veteran quarterback Andy Dalton is out for at least a couple of weeks due to a quad injury. With Dalton sidelined, the Panthers are actively exploring options to bring in another quarterback to bridge the gap in their lineup.
Running Backs Hit Hard
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is currently nursing a calf injury that surfaced in early August. This star running back is anticipated to miss several weeks of practice and will likely sit out the preseason games as the 2024 campaign approaches.
The Detroit Lions are dealing with their own injury woes. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs made an early exit from practice on Monday due to a hamstring injury, heightening concerns for the team. The Carolina Panthers' rookie running back Jonathon Brooks is in recovery mode after tearing his ACL last November. According to head coach Dave Canales, Brooks is expected to return by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season.
Wide Receivers' Woes
Several wide receivers are also feeling the impact of injuries. Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is grappling with a knee injury that will keep him out for four to six weeks. Under new head coach Brian Callahan, the Titans are expected to lean more towards a pass-oriented offense, adding pressure on their receiving corps in light of Hopkins’ absence.
The struggles don't end there. The New Orleans Saints' wide receiver Josh Downs is managing a high-ankle sprain that he sustained on August 7. Similarly, Baltimore Ravens’ second-year receiver Puka Nacua is considered week-to-week following a knee injury during practice.
Defensive Setbacks
On the defensive side, the Dallas Cowboys are dealing with a significant loss as edge rusher Sam Williams suffered a torn ACL, ruling him out for the entire 2024 season. Williams was anticipated to play a pivotal supporting role behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence.
In Cincinnati, Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited a recent practice with a knee injury. However, the prognosis appears more favorable, as it is not believed to be serious. Nonetheless, the Bengals are monitoring the situation closely.
Season-Ending Injuries
The San Francisco 49ers' season took a hit with Samson Ebukam tearing his Achilles tendon during practice, sidelining him for the entire 2024 season. Additionally, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are facing the loss of guard Sua Opeta, who is out for the year after tearing his ACL.
Linemen Struggles
Bengals' first-round pick Amarius Mims is looking at several weeks of recovery due to a pectoral strain, putting his availability at the start of the season in question. The Jacksonville Jaguars are in a double bind with both tackles facing issues; Cam Robinson is nursing a shoulder injury, while Anton Harrison is sidelined due to the concussion protocol. Last season, Robinson played in only nine games owing to a suspension and knee issue, adding to the Jaguars' current concerns.
Coaches Face the Challenge
Head coaches across the NFL are navigating these challenges with a mix of caution and optimism. As Saints' head coach Dennis Allen remarked, teams must "figure out how to stay healthy" amidst the grueling demands of the season. Rams coach Sean McVay encapsulated the uncertainty faced by many teams, noting they are taking the situation "a week at a time."
As the clock ticks towards the regular season, teams across the league will need to adapt swiftly to these setbacks, hoping that their key players can recover in time to make an impact on the field.