As NFL training camps progress, the league is experiencing an uptick in injuries that has sidelined or ended the seasons of several key players, affecting teams' strategies and preparations for the regular season.
Chargers Without Herbert
The Los Angeles Chargers face significant challenges with the temporary loss of their star quarterback, Justin Herbert. Herbert has sustained a plantar fascia injury in his right foot, which will have him in a walking boot for the next two weeks. Despite this setback, the team remains optimistic about Herbert's availability for the regular season. Meanwhile, backup quarterback Easton Stick will step up to fill the void during Herbert's recovery period.
Panthers Scramble for Quarterbacks
The Carolina Panthers are similarly affected, with backup quarterback Andy Dalton sidelined for a few weeks due to a quad injury. This injury leaves the Panthers in a precarious situation, prompting them to scour the market for an additional quarterback to ensure adequate depth at the position. The Panthers are also monitoring the progress of rookie running back Jonathon Brooks, who is rehabbing from a torn ACL he sustained last November. Head coach Dave Canales recently expressed his expectations, stating, "He expects rookie running back Jonathon Brooks to be ready around Week 3 or Week 4 of this season."
Offensive Player of the Year's Setback
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year has also been hit by the injury bug, sustaining a calf injury in early August that is likely to keep him out of practice for several weeks. Coach Kyle Shanahan provided an update, noting, "The reigning Offensive Player of the Year suffered a calf injury in early August and will likely miss a few weeks of practice."
Injury Woes Across the League
Other teams are grappling with their own injury challenges. The Rams' offensive lineman Jonah Jackson is currently listed as "week to week" with a shoulder injury. The Jacksonville Jaguars are dealing with multiple issues as well, with Cam Robinson exiting practice due to a shoulder injury and Anton Harrison entering concussion protocol. Additionally, key defenders like Demario Davis and Sam Williams are out due to hamstring and ACL injuries, respectively, with Williams' injury sidelining him for the entire season.
Wide receiver and return specialist Moore has also been carted off due to a non-contact injury, later diagnosed as a season-ending knee injury. These injuries have forced teams to make significant adjustments in their training camp plans and preseason preparations.
Players on the Mend
Other notable injuries include Samson Ebukam, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon, and YaYa Diaby, who incurred a high-ankle sprain. The Detroit Lions have placed John Cominsky on injured reserve due to a torn MCL. Meanwhile, defensive end Ty Johnson missed recent practices because of a hamstring injury, adding to the Lions' concerns.
Some players, however, are making their way back. James Cook, who had to temporarily leave practice for personal reasons, has rejoined his team. For Jermaine Burton, a minor ankle injury has led to a short-term absence, while Rashod Bateman is dealing with soreness from a rib/stomach hit. The latter injuries are less severe but still require careful monitoring to prevent further complications.
Uncertain Times Ahead
Saints' second-year receiver Nacua, who enters his sophomore season with high expectations following his Offensive Rookie of the Year accolade in 2023, is facing uncertainty after suffering a knee injury in practice. ESPN reported, "Nacua enters Year 2 with high expectations after winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023. He suffered a knee injury at Saturday's practice, however, and is now considered week-to-week."
As training camps continue, the injury list remains a critical concern for all teams. Players entering the camp on reserves lists like the physically unable to perform (PUP) list further complicate matters for coaching staffs and management, as they strive to have their rosters in optimal shape for the upcoming season. The hope is that early setbacks will be resolved, allowing players to return to the field and contribute to their teams' success in the highly competitive NFL landscape.