Preseason NFL Injuries: A Growing Concern for Teams
Preseason NFL Injuries: A Growing Concern for Teams
Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, and this preseason has been no exception. All 32 teams have faced significant setbacks as various key players have sustained serious injuries, impacting their availability for the upcoming season. The grueling nature of training camp and preseason games often results in such outcomes, and the current roster of injured players underscores this harsh reality.
One of the more notable cases is Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason. Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. Rated as a key player, Moore’s abrupt exit from the practice field—complete with an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility—dashed hopes for his contribution to the Falcons this season. Expectations are now pegged for his return in 2025.
Similarly, Trice, the Falcons' No. 74 overall pick, tore his ACL in his first preseason game. His anticipated timeline aligns with Moore's, with a return also expected in 2025. For a fresh draft pick, this injury is a significant blow not just for Trice but for the team's immediate plans.
Long-term Injuries
Other players are also facing prolonged recovery periods. Evans will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, with a return slated for 2025. Another player sidelined until 2025 is Williams, who tore his ACL during training camp. This string of ACL injuries has left a noticeable void in several teams' rosters, demanding quick adjustments and new strategies from coaches.
Another prominent injury concerns Milano, who suffered a broken leg in Week 5 last season. This year, he has been felled by a torn biceps, which will keep him off the field for the majority of the season. Milano's return is optimistically scheduled for December, presenting a challenging timeline for a team relying heavily on his skills.
Shorter-term Setbacks
On the shorter end of the injury spectrum, Curtis Samuel is considered "week to week" with turf toe. He is expected to be back by Week 2. MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is another player eyeing a relatively quick return, likely by Week 3.
Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL are likely to keep them off the field until Week 4. Bengals' first-round pick dealt with a strained pectoral muscle sustained in their first preseason game, but he is expected to be ready by Week 2.
New Challenges
Some of the more disturbing injuries include McCarthy's torn meniscus, leading to a return in 2025, and Herbig's torn rotator cuff which has ruled him out until December. Such injuries create huge gaps in team lineups.
Injuries like Chubb’s knee affliction from last season have resulted in multiple surgeries, with his return not anticipated before Week 5. Chubb's case is particularly troubling as he remains on PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) since Week 17, with a potential return by Week 8.
Immediate Concerns
Several players will be missing the initial games of the season but are expected to contribute before mid-season. Tennessee’s No. 1 wideout, who suffered a knee injury in early August, and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year both aim for returns by Week 1. Higbee, meanwhile, will rejoin in Week 15 due to ACL and MCL injuries.
In terms of immediate impact, the Lions' second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury earlier this month. However, in a positive update, head coach Dan Campbell has said it is "not expected to be a serious issue." Similarly, Phillips, who was activated off PUP last week after suffering a torn Achilles, and Warren, sidelined in a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, are also expected back by Week 1.
Coaches' Outlook
Coaches remain cautiously optimistic. Dave Canales, in particular, is hopeful for Brooks, stating, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return." This sentiment resonates across coaching staffs, as they navigate the intricate balance of managing injuries while preparing their teams for opening day.
These injuries inevitably disrupt preseason evaluations and preparations, leading coaches and backroom staff to constantly adapt. As the season draws nearer, teams will be watching their injured reserves closely, hoping for timely recoveries and minimal setbacks.
The resilience and adaptability of NFL teams will be tested as this season unfolds. Fans and analysts alike are already speculating on how these injuries will shape the early narratives of what's sure to be a gripping season.
