Injuries are an inescapable part of football, and Week 2 of the 2024 NFL season proved to be no exception. Teams across the league faced significant setbacks as numerous key players went down, altering the landscape of their respective squads and impacting game plans moving forward.
Tua Tagovailoa's Concussion Woes Continue
Leading the list is Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who sustained a concussion during Thursday's game, marking at least the third confirmed brain injury of his career. As a consequence, the Dolphins placed Tagovailoa on injured reserve, sidelining him until at least Week 8. The implications for Miami are substantial, given Tagovailoa's pivotal role in their offensive scheme.
Spears, Lloyd, and Bigsby Suffer Ankle Injuries
Among other notable injuries, Tyjae Spears of the Tennessee Titans injured his ankle in the second half against the New York Jets. Spears' locker room exit, shoe off and accompanied by a trainer, signals the seriousness of the injury, though his status remains day-to-day.
MarShawn Lloyd of the Green Bay Packers also fell prey to an ankle injury during their clash with the Indianapolis Colts, compelling his early exit. The Packers placed Lloyd on injured reserve on Tuesday, further depleting their ranks.
Tank Bigsby of the Jacksonville Jaguars did not return after sustaining a shoulder injury against the Cleveland Browns. Although initially listed as questionable, the Jaguars ultimately chose caution, sidelining Bigsby for the remainder of the game.
Chiefs Deal with Pacheco's Injury
The Kansas City Chiefs are facing significant adjustments after Isiah Pacheco injured his ankle in the second half against the Bengals. Seen leaving the stadium on crutches and in a walking boot, the Chiefs placed Pacheco on injured reserve, ensuring he will miss at least four games.
Joe Mixon Avoids Serious Setback
Conversely, the Cincinnati Bengals breathed a sigh of relief with Joe Mixon's ankle injury. Though Mixon had to leave Sunday night's game, an MRI on Monday confirmed that the injury wasn’t as severe as initially feared.
Wide Receiver Woes: Jefferson, Kupp, and Samuel
Wide receivers also endured a tough week, with Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings exiting the game against the 49ers with a thigh bruise/contusion. Despite needing assistance to leave the field, Jefferson assured, "He'll be fine."
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams' Cooper Kupp suffered an ankle injury in the first half against the Arizona Cardinals, later spotted in a walking boot on his left foot/lower leg. Expected to miss extended time, Kupp's absence will significantly impact the Rams' offensive dynamics.
San Francisco 49ers standout Deebo Samuel will miss a couple of weeks due to a calf injury. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed this timeline, emphasizing the team's cautious approach to Samuel's recovery.
More Offensive Setbacks
A.J. Brown didn't appear in "Monday Night Football" against the Falcons due to a hamstring injury. Brown indicated that his return might take multiple weeks, leaving the Philadelphia Eagles to adapt without one of their star playmakers.
David Bell's season came to a premature end after the Browns' wide receiver dislocated his hip. Set for season-ending surgery, the Browns placed Bell on injured reserve, a move that underscores the severity of his condition.
Defensive Depth Takes a Hit
Defensive players were not spared either. Taysom Hill of the New Orleans Saints exited with a chest injury against the Cowboys, while Evan Engram sat out Week 2 due to a hamstring issue sustained during pregame warmups.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are assessing the extent of Vita Vea's knee injury after Yaya Diaby fell onto his knee during their match against the Lions. An initial diagnosis points to an MCL sprain, with an MRI scheduled for further evaluation.
DeForest Buckner of the Colts faced a scare with an apparent leg/ankle injury against the Packers. Though X-rays came back negative, an MRI will determine the severity of Buckner’s ankle sprain, which currently appears not to be severe.
Other defensive casualties included B.J. Hill of the Bengals with a hamstring injury, C.J. Mosley of the Jets with a foot injury, Jerome Baker of the Dolphins with a hamstring issue, and Jermaine Johnson II, believed to have torn his Achilles. Furthermore, Ja'Whaun Bentley's torn pectoral muscle has ruled him out for the season.
As the NFL season progresses, these injuries underscore the physical toll of the sport and the resilience required from teams and players. While replacements and adjustments will be made, the impact of these injuries will undeniably be felt in the weeks to come.
