The landscape of the NFL is rapidly shifting as training camps proceed, with a series of significant injuries impacting key players and altering team dynamics. As teams brace for the start of the regular season, these injuries present both challenges and opportunities for strategists and players alike.
Impact on Quarterbacks
The Los Angeles Chargers faced a substantial setback when their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, sustained a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert will be in a walking boot for two weeks before beginning a return-to-play protocol. While he is expected to be ready for the regular season, his absence has prompted backup Easton Stick to take first-team reps.
In Carolina, the Panthers are also grappling with an injury to their quarterback, Andy Dalton, who is sidelined for at least a couple of weeks with a quad injury. As a response, the Panthers are actively seeking an additional quarterback to fill the gap during Dalton's recovery.
Key Offensive Injuries
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is currently managing a calf injury that arose in early August. This star running back is anticipated to miss a few weeks of practice and is unlikely to participate in any preseason games ahead of the 2024 campaign.
The Detroit Lions also saw their running back, Jahmyr Gibbs, leave practice early due to a hamstring injury. Similarly, the Panthers are awaiting the return of rookie running back Jonathon Brooks, who is recovering from an ACL tear he sustained last November. According to head coach Dave Canales, Brooks is expected to be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season.
Receiving and Defensive Setbacks
In Tennessee, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is dealing with a knee injury that will keep him out for four to six weeks. The Titans are expected to shift to a more pass-oriented offense under new head coach Brian Callahan, which will now have to adapt without Hopkins for the initial part of the season.
Saints wide receiver Josh Downs is contending with a high-ankle sprain suffered on August 7, while Ravens' second-year receiver Puka Nacua is considered week-to-week following a knee injury during practice.
The Dallas Cowboys received disheartening news as edge rusher Sam Williams suffered a torn ACL, ruling him out for the 2024 season. Williams was expected to play a supporting role behind defensive stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence. Similarly, Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited Sunday’s practice with a knee injury, though it is not believed to be serious.
Samson Ebukam, another edge rusher, tore his Achilles tendon during practice and will miss the entire 2024 season, while Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta is also out for the year after tearing his ACL.
Additional Injury Concerns
Bengals’ first-round pick Amarius Mims is facing several weeks off due to a pectoral strain, potentially missing the start of the regular season. The Jaguars are dealing with multiple injuries on their offensive line, with tackle Cam Robinson suffering from a shoulder injury and tackle Anton Harrison currently in concussion protocol. Last season, Robinson played in only nine games due to a suspension and knee issue, compounding the Jaguars' current concerns.
As coaches across the league navigate these setbacks, they are maintaining a cautiously optimistic outlook. "Figure out how to stay healthy," Saints' head coach Dennis Allen emphasized, a sentiment echoed by Rams coach Sean McVay, who advised taking things "a week at a time."
The resilience and adaptability of NFL teams are being tested as they make strategic adjustments and manage player recoveries. With the regular season approaching, the ability to navigate these challenges may well define the trajectory of their campaigns.