As NFL training camps continue, a wave of injuries has struck key players, significantly impacting team rosters and strategies just weeks before the regular season kicks off. The Los Angeles Chargers were among the teams hardest hit, with star quarterback Justin Herbert suffering a plantar fascia injury in his right foot.
Herbert, regarded as one of the league's top young talents, is expected to be in a walking boot for two weeks before starting a return-to-play protocol. Despite this setback, the Chargers are optimistic about his availability for the season opener. In the meantime, backup quarterback Easton Stick will take over first-team reps, gaining valuable experience in Herbert's absence.
Quarterback Quandaries
In Carolina, the quarterback situation took a turn for the worse as veteran Andy Dalton sustained a quad injury, sidelining him for at least a couple of weeks. This development has prompted the Panthers to look for additional quarterback options to fill the temporary void. The uncertainty surrounding Dalton's return adds another layer of complexity to the team's preseason preparations.
Adding to the list of significant injuries, the reigning Offensive Player of the Year is nursing a calf injury that developed in early August. The star running back is expected to miss several weeks of practice and is unlikely to see any preseason action ahead of the 2024 campaign.
Ailing Running Backs
The Detroit Lions' training camp wasn’t spared either. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs left practice early on Monday due to a hamstring injury, raising concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season. On a more positive note, Panthers rookie running back Jonathon Brooks is on track with his recovery from an ACL tear he sustained last November. Head coach Dave Canales indicated that Brooks might be ready by Week 3 or Week 4, providing a boost to the Panthers' backfield.
Receivers on the Mend
The Tennessee Titans have also felt the injury bug, with wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins dealing with a knee injury that will keep him out for four to six weeks. The Titans, under new head coach Brian Callahan, are expected to adopt a more pass-oriented offense, making Hopkins' absence a considerable blow. Over in New Orleans, Saints wide receiver Josh Downs is managing a high-ankle sprain sustained on August 7, which could affect his performance as the season approaches.
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens' second-year receiver, Puka Nacua, is labeled week-to-week with a knee injury incurred during practice. This puts his early-season participation in question, adding another wrinkle to the Ravens’ offensive plans.
Defensive Setbacks
The Dallas Cowboys' defense took a hit with edge rusher Sam Williams tearing his ACL, ruling him out for the 2024 season. Williams was anticipated to play a supporting role to stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence, making his injury a significant loss. Similarly, Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited Sunday’s practice with a knee injury, although initial reports suggest it may not be severe.
Another devastating blow came for the Indianapolis Colts, as Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon during practice, sidelining him for the entire season. The Buccaneers are reeling as well, with guard Sua Opeta out for the year following an ACL tear.
Offensive Line Woes
The Bengals face another setback with their first-round pick, Amarius Mims, who is dealing with a pectoral strain that could sideline him for several weeks. The injury clouds his availability for the start of the regular season. Jaguars tackle Cam Robinson is coping with a shoulder injury, a continuation of his struggles from last season when he played just nine games due to suspension and a knee issue. Fellow Jaguars tackle Anton Harrison is also out, currently in concussion protocol, which leaves the team shuffling its offensive line with the season fast approaching.
As teams grapple with these injuries, head coaches are maintaining cautious optimism. Saints' head coach Dennis Allen succinctly captured the sentiment shared by many, emphasizing the importance to "figure out how to stay healthy." Similarly, Rams coach Sean McVay summarized the challenge ahead, focusing on managing the situation "a week at a time."
With key players sidelined across the NFL, the upcoming weeks will be crucial for teams to adapt and strategize. As the countdown to the regular season continues, all eyes will be on recovery timelines and depth chart adjustments, shaping the landscape of the 2024 NFL season.