As NFL training camps get underway with the regular season just a few weeks away, a series of injuries has shaken up team rosters, affecting preparation and team dynamics. The health and readiness of key players have become central concerns for coaching staff and supporters alike.
Justin Herbert's Setback
The Los Angeles Chargers received alarming news when their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Consequently, Herbert is expected to be in a walking boot for two weeks, following which he will commence a return-to-play protocol. In the interim, backup quarterback Easton Stick will take on first-team reps. Despite this setback, there's optimism that Herbert will be ready for the regular season.
Quarterback Woes in Carolina
Similarly, the Carolina Panthers are grappling with the absence of quarterback Andy Dalton, who is sidelined for at least a couple of weeks due to a quad injury. This development has prompted the Panthers to actively search for an additional quarterback to fill in during Dalton's recovery period.
Injuries Impacting Other Teams
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is dealing with a calf injury sustained in early August. This star running back is expected to miss several weeks of practice and is unlikely to participate in any preseason games, impacting his readiness for the 2024 campaign.
In Detroit, Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs had to leave practice early on Monday due to a hamstring injury. Concurrently, the Panthers' rookie running back Jonathon Brooks continues his recovery from an ACL tear sustained last November. Head coach Dave Canales has expressed hope that Brooks will be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season.
DeAndre Hopkins' Extended Absence
The Tennessee Titans are also dealing with injury complications as wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins faces a knee injury that will keep him out for four to six weeks. As the Titans adapt to a more pass-oriented offense under new head coach Brian Callahan, Hopkins' absence poses a significant challenge.
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Josh Downs is contending with a high-ankle sprain sustained on August 7. Meanwhile, the Ravens' second-year receiver Puka Nacua is listed as week-to-week following a knee injury during practice.
Season-Ending Injuries
Some players face even more severe circumstances. Cowboys edge rusher Sam Williams has suffered a torn ACL and will miss the entire 2024 season. Williams was anticipated to play a supporting role behind defensive stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence.
Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited Sunday’s practice with a knee injury; however, it is not believed to be serious. Unfortunately, Bengals' first-round pick Amarius Mims could potentially miss the start of the regular season due to a pectoral strain, sidelining him for several weeks.
Samson Ebukam’s torn Achilles tendon during practice is another significant loss, sidelining him for the entirety of the 2024 season. Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta also faces a season-long absence after tearing his ACL.
Jaguars' Battle with Injuries
Jacksonville Jaguars' tackle Cam Robinson is struggling with a shoulder injury after a season plagued by suspension and knee issues. The team will also be without rookie tackle Anton Harrison as he enters the concussion protocol.
Coaching Challenges
With these injuries mounting, head coaches across the league are adopting cautious optimism in managing their rosters. Saints' head coach Dennis Allen emphasized the need to "figure out how to stay healthy," while Rams coach Sean McVay noted that they are approaching the situation "a week at a time."
As the preseason progresses, these teams will be closely monitoring the health and recovery of their key players in hopes of fielding the most competitive squads when the regular season kicks off.