As the first week of the NFL preseason wrapped up, it brought a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of football. The preseason is an invaluable testing ground for up-and-coming players, but it also presents significant risks, evidenced by a slew of injuries that have already begun to shape team dynamics and strategies.
Marquee Injuries
Injuries are an expected part of the game, especially in physically demanding sports like NFL football. Yet, the sheer number of notable injuries during the initial week of the preseason is remarkable. Among the most severe was a torn ACL suffered by Falcons' outside linebacker Bralen Trice, a major blow to the team’s defensive plans.
The Kansas City Chiefs were also hit hard. Hollywood Brown, who managed an 11-yard catch against the Jaguars before an unfortunate turn of events, dislocated his sternoclavicular joint. Coach Andy Reid confirmed, "He suffered a sternoclavicular joint dislocation," a painful injury that will likely sideline the player for some time. This leaves the Chiefs in a precarious position, potentially without a key offensive weapon as the regular season looms.
Giants Quarterback Quandary
For the New York Giants, quarterback Drew Lock's injury couldn’t have come at a worse time. Lock, who suffered a hip pointer and a strained oblique late in the first quarter against the Lions, is expected to miss significant time. This injury leaves the Giants with only two healthy quarterbacks: starter Daniel Jones and rookie Tommy DeVito, who now steps into the backup role. This development will undoubtedly impact the Giants' preparation as they move closer to the regular season.
Ravens' Optimism and Steelers’ Precaution
Over in Baltimore, the Ravens are adopting a cautious optimism regarding cornerback Nate Wiggins. Wiggins exited Friday's game against the Eagles with a minor shoulder sprain after an impressive start, which included three pass breakups. Sustaining his injury while making a tackle in the third quarter, Wiggins' status is considered day-to-day. There is hope within the Ravens' camp that he will recover in time for Week 1.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers are monitoring offensive tackle Troy Fautanu closely after he left their preseason opener with a knee injury. Diagnosed with a minor MCL sprain, Fautanu was seen with ice wrapped around his knee post-game. The team does not believe the injury is severe, which is a positive for Pittsburgh as they head into the remaining preseason fixtures.
Packers and Browns' Preseason Struggles
The Green Bay Packers had their own setback when rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd picked up a hamstring injury in the third quarter against the Browns. Lloyd, who was a third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was the fourth running back to touch the ball in the game, showing promise before being sidelined.
The Browns are also dealing with their share of preseason injuries. Wide receiver David Bell sustained a quadriceps injury in Saturday’s game against the Packers, a critical moment for him as he vies for playing time behind prominent names like Amari Cooper, Elijah Moore, and Jerry Jeudy.
49ers and Giants' Additional Setbacks
San Francisco 49ers’ cornerback Ambry Thomas faced a tough break, both literally and figuratively. Thomas broke his forearm late in the first half of the preseason game against the Titans and had to be carted off to the locker room post-evaluation in the medical tent. The injury's severity guarantees a significant spell on the sidelines. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the impact, noting, "It will be some time."
The Giants experienced yet another injury, this time to wide receiver Malik Nabers. Nabers suffered a minor ankle sprain during a practice session on Sunday after having his foot inadvertently stepped on. While the injury does not appear to be severe, it puts additional strain on an already brittle roster.
As the NFL preseason continues, teams will navigate the fine line between preparation and preservation. Injuries incurred now have the potential to significantly influence strategies and player availability once the regular season kicks off. Until then, the health and recovery of these players remain paramount, with teams hoping to start the season at full strength.