As training camps progress across the NFL, a wave of injuries has swept through, affecting several key players and reshaping team dynamics just weeks before the regular season begins.
Quarterback Woes
The Los Angeles Chargers were dealt a significant blow when star quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. He is expected to be in a walking boot for two weeks before starting a return-to-play protocol. Despite the setback, Herbert is anticipated to be ready for the regular season. In his absence, backup Easton Stick will assume first-team reps, an opportunity for him to showcase his potential.
Elsewhere, the Carolina Panthers are grappling with a temporary loss of quarterback Andy Dalton, who is sidelined for at least a couple of weeks with a quad injury. The Panthers are actively seeking to bring in another quarterback to fill the gap during Dalton's recovery.
Running Back Challenges
Even the injury bug hasn’t spared some of the league's most celebrated players. The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is nursing a calf injury that emerged in early August. This star running back is expected to miss a few weeks of practice and is unlikely to participate in any preseason games ahead of the 2024 campaign.
In Detroit, Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs left practice early on Monday due to a hamstring injury, adding to the concerns in Detroit's backfield. Meanwhile, Panthers rookie running back Jonathon Brooks, who is recovering from an ACL tear sustained last November, is expected to be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season, according to head coach Dave Canales.
Receivers and Tight Ends Hit Hard
In Tennessee, the offense took a hit with star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins suffering a knee injury that will keep him out for four to six weeks. Hopkins' absence is a significant blow to the Titans, who are expected to adopt a more pass-oriented offense under new head coach Brian Callahan.
For the Saints, wide receiver Josh Downs is dealing with a high-ankle sprain after being helped off the practice field on August 7, potentially sidelining him for multiple weeks. Additionally, Ravens' second-year receiver Puka Nacua, who had a promising rookie season, is considered week-to-week following a knee injury sustained during practice.
Defensive End Dilemmas
On the defensive side, the Cowboys are reeling from the loss of edge rusher Sam Williams, who suffered a torn ACL and will miss the 2024 season. Williams was expected to play a supporting role behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence.
Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited Sunday’s practice with a knee injury, although it is not believed to be serious. On a more severe note, Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon during practice and will be placed on injured reserve, missing the entire 2024 season.
Offensive Line Struggles
The injury woes extend to the offensive line where several key players have been sidelined. Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta is out for the year after tearing his ACL, leaving a spot that Opeta and Ben Bredeson were vying for unclaimed. Bredeson has since taken reps with the starters.
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. Jaguars tackle Cam Robinson’s shoulder injury adds to his woes, following a nine-game season last year due to a suspension and knee issue. Teammate Anton Harrison is also sidelined, having entered the concussion protocol.
Coaches' Hopes and Reactions
Head coaches across the league are navigating these setbacks with cautious optimism. Saints' head coach Dennis Allen urged running back Kendre Miller to "figure out how to stay healthy" after Miller exited the first camp practice with a hamstring injury. Rams coach Sean McVay took a more patient approach, stating the team will not rush Darious Williams back from a hamstring strain, opting to take it "a week at a time."
As further practices unfold and the preseason progresses, teams will be hoping for full recoveries and minimal new injuries to ensure that they enter the regular season as strong as possible.