In the gritty realm of the NFL, where physicality reigns supreme, injuries are an inevitable part of the sport's landscape. This preseason, every one of the 32 teams has felt the sting as various key players have sustained serious injuries, leaving an impact that promises to shape the upcoming season significantly.
Major Setbacks for the Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons, for instance, have been particularly hard-hit. Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason, suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. The scene was somber as he exited the practice field with an air cast on his right leg, immediately transported to a local medical facility. Moore is not expected to return until 2025, a timeline that has thrown the Falcons' plans into disarray.
Further complicating Atlanta’s situation, their No. 74 overall pick, Trice, tore his ACL during his first preseason game. Like Moore, Trice's recovery is projected to take until 2025. Additionally, Evans will also be sidelined for the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, with his return similarly expected in 2025.
A Cross-League Injury Plague
Across the league, several teams are grappling with pivotal injuries. The defensive unit of the Buffalo Bills took a hit with Milano suffering a torn biceps, sidelining him for most of the season. Optimistically, Milano could return by December, but Bills fans and staff alike know the road to recovery can be unpredictable.
The Washington Commanders are dealing with Curtis Samuel's turf toe, which has rendered him "week to week." There is hope that he will rejoin the squad by Week 2. Meanwhile, MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a preseason win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to return by Week 3.
Hamstring Issues and ACL Tears
In Cincinnati, the Bengals' first-round pick strained a pectoral muscle in their opening preseason game, though he's expected to be ready by Week 2. Dane Jackson's significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL are likely to keep them off the field until Week 4. Head Coach Dave Canales noted, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
More misfortune struck the Detroit Lions, whose second-year running back endured a hamstring injury this month. Fortunately for Detroit, this injury is "not expected to be a serious issue," providing some solace amidst the widespread preseason woes.
Notable Players Set for Extended Recovery
The Kansas City Chiefs will have to manage without McCarthy, who suffered a torn meniscus and is out until 2025. The Steelers' Herbig, dealing with a torn rotator cuff, won’t see action until December. Last season's knee injury for Chubb led to multiple surgeries, preventing his return before Week 5. Remaining on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list since Week 17 last season, Chubb’s timeline optimistically points to a Week 8 return.
Optimism Amidst Adversity
Despite the wide array of serious injuries, there are glimmers of hope. Tennessee’s No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are aiming to make a comeback by Week 1 after initial knee injuries in early August. Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off the PUP list last week and is also expected back by Week 1. Similarly, the Lions' tight end Higbee, dealing with ACL and MCL injuries, is projected to rejoin by Week 15.
Warren, who took a hit resulting in a hamstring injury during a preseason game against the Bills, is expected back by Week 1. This return is crucial for the team’s offensive strategies early in the season. Additionally, Dave Canales remains hopeful about Brooks' return, articulating that he aims for a comeback around Week 3 or Week 4.
Preseason injuries have disrupted evaluations and preparations across the NFL, forcing coaches and staff to adapt strategies and plans. This adversity testifies to the resilience and depth required in a league where every game could pivot towards victory or despair. As teams strategize around these setbacks, the resilience and tactical ingenuity of each roster will ultimately define the season’s narrative.