As NFL training camps progress, a spate of injuries has emerged, impacting several high-profile players and reshaping team dynamics just weeks before the regular season kicks off. This wave of setbacks has forced coaches and teams to adjust strategies and prepare for the upcoming season with cautious optimism.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers faced a significant setback as star quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. This injury places Herbert in a walking boot for two weeks, during which he will then start a return-to-play protocol. Despite the injury, Herbert is anticipated to be ready for the regular season. In his absence, backup quarterback Easton Stick will assume first-team reps, a crucial period for Stick to demonstrate his capability to lead the offense if needed.
Carolina Panthers
Quarterback Andy Dalton of the Carolina Panthers has been sidelined with a quad injury that will keep him out for at least a couple of weeks. As a result, the Panthers are actively seeking an additional quarterback to bridge the gap during Dalton’s recovery. Moreover, Panthers rookie running back Jonathon Brooks is recovering from an ACL tear sustained last November. Head coach Dave Canales expects Brooks to be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season, adding another layer of complexity to the Panthers' early-season plans.
Running Backs' Health Concerns
In other running back news, the reigning Offensive Player of the Year is dealing with a calf injury that emerged in early August. This prominent player is expected to miss several weeks of practice and is unlikely to participate in any preseason games ahead of the 2024 campaign. Similarly, the Detroit Lions' Jahmyr Gibbs left practice early on Monday due to a hamstring injury, adding another name to the list of critical players facing health issues.
Tennessee and New Orleans Updates
The Tennessee Titans are also grappling with the loss of wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who is dealing with a knee injury that will keep him off the field for four to six weeks. Under new head coach Brian Callahan, the Titans had planned to adopt a more pass-oriented offense, a strategy that may be impacted by Hopkins’ absence.
For the New Orleans Saints, wide receiver Josh Downs suffered a high-ankle sprain on August 7. Saints' head coach Dennis Allen emphasized the importance of players' health, noting his team needs to "figure out how to stay healthy" to navigate the forthcoming season challenges.
Ravens, Cowboys, and Bengals
The Baltimore Ravens' second-year receiver Puka Nacua is considered week-to-week following a knee injury sustained during practice. The Dallas Cowboys received a tough blow with edge rusher Sam Williams tearing his ACL, forcing him to miss the entire 2024 season. Williams was expected to play a supporting role behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence, which now leaves a notable gap in their defensive lineup.
Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals are dealing with multiple injuries. Edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited Sunday’s practice with a knee injury, though preliminary reports suggest it is not believed to be serious. However, first-round pick Amarius Mims is facing several weeks off due to a pectoral strain, potentially causing him to miss the start of the regular season.
Season-Ending Injuries
Two more players who have suffered season-ending injuries include Samson Ebukam and Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta. Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon during practice, while Opeta is out for the year after tearing his ACL. These losses will undoubtedly force their respective teams to find suitable replacements and make strategic adjustments.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars are facing offensive line challenges with both tackle Cam Robinson and rookie tackle Anton Harrison dealing with injuries. Robinson, who played only nine games last season due to a suspension and knee issue, now has a shoulder injury. Harrison is entering the concussion protocol, further complicating Jaguars' offensive line configuration.
With head coaches navigating these setbacks, teams are taking things "a week at a time," as Rams coach Sean McVay put it. This approach, combined with the need for strategic depth and careful monitoring of recovery timelines, are critical factors in keeping team morale and performance intact as the NFL inches closer to the regular season.