Injuries are an unfortunate reality in the NFL, and this preseason has been particularly harsh on all 32 teams. Key players across the league have faced significant setbacks, raising concerns about team performances and strategies for the upcoming season.
Key Players Sidelined
Among the notable injuries, Moore, who was traded to the Atlanta Falcons this offseason, sustained a devastating season-ending knee injury. His departure from the practice field was dramatic, with an air cast on his right leg and urgent transportation to a local medical facility. Unfortunately, fans will have to wait until 2025 to see him on the field again.
The Falcons were also hit hard when Trice, their No. 74 overall pick, tore his ACL in his first preseason game. Trice, like Moore, is expected to make his return in 2025. This double blow significantly impacts Atlanta's defensive prospects this season.
Other Major Setbacks
Evans, Williams, and McCarthy are others who won't see any action this year due to severe injuries. Evans' torn patellar tendon, Williams’ ACL tear during training camp, and McCarthy’s torn meniscus mean their anticipated return dates are all set for 2025. Additionally, Milano's torn biceps will keep him off the field for the majority of the season, though there’s some hope he might return by December.
Short-Term Recoveries
Not all news is bleak, however. Some players are expected to be back sooner. Curtis Samuel, dealing with turf toe, is considered "week to week" and will likely be back by Week 2. MVS, who suffered a neck sprain in a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is eyeing a return by Week 3.
Dane Jackson's significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL will likely keep them sidelined until Week 4. The same goes for the Bengals' first-round pick with a strained pectoral muscle from their first preseason game, expected to return by Week 2.
Teams Adapting to Challenges
The Tennessee Titans' star wideout and last season's Offensive Rookie of the Year are aiming to return by Week 1 after knee injuries in early August. Meanwhile, Tyler Higbee of the Los Angeles Rams will remain out until Week 15 due to ACL and MCL injuries.
The Lions' second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury this month but is "not expected to be a serious issue," providing a glimmer of hope for Detroit fans. Similarly, Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off PUP last week and is slated to be back by Week 1.
Optimistic Returns
There is a cautious optimism around Herbig, who tore his rotator cuff and is ruled out until December. Chubb’s situation remains challenging; his knee injury from last season required multiple surgeries, and his return is not anticipated before Week 5. He has been on PUP since Week 17, with a potential return by Week 8.
Dave Canales voiced hope regarding Brooks' return by Week 3 or Week 4, stating that such a timeline would be "great." This sentiment mirrors the overall approach of coaches and staff across the league as they pivot and adapt to these preseason disruptions.
Impact on Evaluations and Preparations
Preseason injuries have significantly disrupted team evaluations and preparations. The sudden absence of key players forces coaching units to scramble, adjusting playbooks and strategies. Every team is affected, making this an exceptionally challenging start to the season.
The NFL's grueling nature means injuries are par for the course, yet the frequency and severity this preseason have been especially profound. With some stars sidelined for the whole season and others working on short-term recoveries, how teams manage these adversities will be crucial in shaping the upcoming NFL season.