As NFL training camps push through the dog days of summer, teams across the league are grappling with an avalanche of injuries that could significantly shape the upcoming season. Several key players have found themselves sidelined with various ailments, forcing coaches to adjust their game plans and depth charts prematurely.
Chargers Take a Blow with Herbert’s Injury
The Los Angeles Chargers faced a tough setback with star quarterback Justin Herbert suffering a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. This injury will see Herbert in a walking boot for two weeks before he can start a return-to-play protocol. Despite the setback, there is optimism that Herbert will be ready for the regular season. In his absence, backup quarterback Easton Stick will take on first-team reps, stepping into a critical role during this precarious time for the Chargers.
Panthers' Quarterback Quandary
Similarly, the Carolina Panthers are dealing with the temporary loss of quarterback Andy Dalton, who is sidelined for at least a couple of weeks due to a quad injury. The Panthers are actively searching for another quarterback to bridge the gap while Dalton recovers, adding an additional layer of urgency to their pre-season preparations.
Runners Off Track
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is also out of action, nursing a calf injury that surfaced in early August. This injury has ruled him out of a few weeks of practice and all preseason games, dampening the team's momentum as they gear up for the 2024 campaign. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions face their own backfield challenge; running back Jahmyr Gibbs left practice early on Monday with a hamstring injury. The extent of his injury is still to be fully evaluated, adding another pinch to the team's prospects.
Rookies and Season-Ending Injuries
The Panthers' rookie running back Jonathon Brooks is on the mend from an ACL tear he sustained last November. According to head coach Dave Canales, Brooks is expected to be game-ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season. In a different scenario, Tennessee wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is dealing with a knee injury that will keep him out for four to six weeks. This absence could impact the Titans' plans to adopt a more pass-oriented offense under new head coach Brian Callahan.
Wide Receiver Woes Around the League
The injury bug has not spared wide receivers either. Saints wide receiver Josh Downs is dealing with a high-ankle sprain that he sustained on August 7. The Ravens’ second-year receiver Puka Nacua is in a week-to-week situation following a knee injury during practice. These injuries raise significant concerns for their respective teams, who will need to strategize around these absences.
Additional Challenges
On the defensive side, the Dallas Cowboys have lost edge rusher Sam Williams to a torn ACL, sidelining him for the 2024 season. Williams was anticipated to be a key supporting player behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence. The Bengals also suffered a blow with edge rusher Sam Hubbard, who exited Sunday’s practice with a knee injury, though initial reports suggest it’s not severe. Unfortunately, Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon during practice and will miss the entire season, dealing a harsh blow to his team.
On the offensive line, the Buccaneers’ guard Sua Opeta is out for the year after tearing his ACL, while the Bengals' first-round pick Amarius Mims faces several weeks off due to a pectoral strain, potentially missing the start of the regular season. The Jaguars are also dealing with multiple setbacks; tackle Cam Robinson has a shoulder injury after playing only nine games last season due to suspension and a knee issue. Additionally, tackle Anton Harrison is sidelined as he navigates the concussion protocol.
Throughout the league, head coaches are navigating these setbacks with cautious optimism. Rams coach Sean McVay emphasized taking things "a week at a time," capturing the collective sentiment. Saints' head coach Dennis Allen summed it up succinctly, emphasizing the need to "figure out how to stay healthy."
As the regular season approaches, the rate and impact of these injuries will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the NFL landscape. Teams will need to adapt quickly to keep their playoff hopes alive while dealing with the harsh realities of professional football’s physical demands.