Injuries have always been a grim reality for the National Football League (NFL), often turning a promising season upside down in a split second. This preseason is no exception, as all 32 teams have experienced their share of injuries, significantly impacting their rosters and strategies.
Key Players Sidelined Early
The Atlanta Falcons are facing setbacks with two significant injuries. Moore, who was acquired via trade this offseason, sustained a season-ending knee injury that will delay his return until 2025. His departure from the practice field, marked by an air cast and immediate transport to a medical facility, underscores the severity of the situation. Additionally, the team's No. 74 overall pick, Trice, fell victim to an ACL tear in his first preseason game. Trice, too, is expected back in 2025, leaving a notable void in the Falcons' lineup.
The fallout extends beyond just the Falcons. Evans is set to miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, aiming for a 2025 return. Williams, having torn his ACL during training camp, follows in the same path, also anticipated for a 2025 comeback. The injury woes don't stop there; McCarthy's torn meniscus will keep him out until 2025, further adding to the list of sidelined athletes.
Optimistic Timelines Amidst the Grim News
Not all injury news has been entirely bleak. Milano, who suffered a torn biceps, is expected to be out for the majority of the season but could make a return by December. Similarly, Herbig's torn rotator cuff has a projected recovery period pointing toward a return in December.
"Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return," noted Dave Canales optimistically, despite Brooks suffering a significant hamstring injury and a torn ACL. Such timelines offer a glimmer of hope for teams aiming to make a strong push in the latter part of the season.
Short-Term Absences
The early weeks of the regular season will also see several players missing but scheduled to return relatively soon. Curtis Samuel, struggling with turf toe, is expected back by Week 2. MVS, who sustained a neck sprain in a preseason victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to return by Week 3. Similarly, the Bengals' first-round pick, dealing with a strained pectoral muscle from their first preseason game, is expected to be ready by Week 2.
Dane Jackson’s hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL could see them back on the field by Week 4, providing some much-needed reinforcements. The Lions' second-year running back's hamstring injury isn't considered a serious issue, which bodes well for his return to action soon.
Long Road to Recovery
Conversely, Chubb's knee injury from last season has been particularly troublesome, requiring multiple surgeries. Currently on the PUP list since Week 17, Chubb's return isn’t anticipated until at least Week 5, with a more realistic target potentially set for Week 8. Tennessee's No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year both aim for Week 1 returns following their knee injuries in early August, offering some optimism amidst their rehabilitation journeys.
Returning from the PUP List
Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off the PUP list last week and is expected back by Week 1. Warren, sidelined due to a hamstring injury in a preseason game against the Bills, is also aiming for a Week 1 return.
The Coaches’ Burden
Preseason injuries have undeniably disrupted team evaluations and preparations, demanding adaptability from coaches and staff. As teams scramble to fill gaps left by injured players, the depth of the roster becomes a critical element. The hope remains that, as the season progresses, the timeline for recovery aligns favorably, allowing for these sidelined stars to make impactful returns.
While the NFL strives to mitigate the occurrence of such injuries through advancements in training and medical care, the physical nature of the sport ensures that injuries remain an inherent risk. As the regular season looms, teams must navigate these early setbacks with strategic adjustments and hope for swift recoveries.