As the NFL preseason intensifies, training camps across the league are facing a troubling surge of injuries that have impacted key players and reshaped team dynamics just weeks before the regular season kicks off.
Chargers Face a Setback with Herbert's Injury
The Los Angeles Chargers received a big blow when their star quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. As a result, Herbert will spend the next two weeks in a walking boot before beginning a return-to-play protocol. Despite the setback, optimism remains high that Herbert will be ready for the regular season. In his absence, backup quarterback Easton Stick has been taking first-team reps, a role that will be critical during Herbert’s recovery.
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers are also grappling with an injury to quarterback Andy Dalton, who is sidelined for at least a few weeks due to a quad injury. The Panthers are actively looking to acquire another quarterback to fill the gap left by Dalton’s absence.
Impact on Key Offensive Players
The recent wave of injuries hasn’t spared the league's top offensive threats either. The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is dealing with a calf injury that emerged in early August and is expected to be out for a few weeks. This star running back is unlikely to see any action in preseason games, casting a cloud over his readiness for the regular season.
The Lions faced a scare when running back Jahmyr Gibbs left practice early with a hamstring injury. In Carolina, rookie running back Jonathon Brooks is on the mend from an ACL tear sustained last November and is expected to be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season, according to head coach Dave Canales.
Receivers and Defensive Players Affected
The Tennessee Titans' offense took a hit when wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins suffered a knee injury that will keep him out for four to six weeks. The Titans, preparing to adopt a more pass-oriented offense under new head coach Brian Callahan, will need to adjust to Hopkins’ absence.
The injury trend continues with the Saints, whose wide receiver Josh Downs is dealing with a high-ankle sprain that occurred on August 7. Meanwhile, the Ravens' second-year receiver Puka Nacua is week-to-week following a knee injury sustained during practice.
Defensively, the Cowboys suffered a major blow with edge rusher Sam Williams tearing his ACL and being ruled out for the entire 2024 season. Williams was anticipated to provide solid support behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence.
The Bengals also faced concerns when edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited Sunday’s practice with a knee injury, though it is not believed to be serious. On a more severe note, Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon during practice and will miss the entire 2024 season.
Offensive Line Injuries Raise Concerns
In addition to skill positions, the offensive line has been hit hard. Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta is out for the year after tearing his ACL. The Bengals' first-round pick, Amarius Mims, is facing several weeks off due to a pectoral strain and could potentially miss the start of the regular season.
The Jaguars are grappling with injuries to two of their tackles. Cam Robinson is dealing with a shoulder injury, while Anton Harrison has been sidelined after entering the concussion protocol. Last season, Robinson played in only nine games due to a suspension and a knee issue, making his latest injury yet another hurdle for the Jaguars to overcome.
Coaches Navigate Unforeseen Challenges
Head coaches across the NFL are navigating these setbacks with cautious optimism. Saints' head coach Dennis Allen emphasized the importance of health, stressing the need to "figure out how to stay healthy." Rams coach Sean McVay took a pragmatic approach, focusing on working "a week at a time" as his team deals with its own challenges.
This season, balancing player recovery with preparation will test the depth and resilience of each roster. With injuries being an unavoidable part of the game, how teams adapt and adjust in the coming weeks will play a significant role in defining their success when the regular season finally begins.