Injuries are an unavoidable aspect of the NFL, and this preseason has been no exception. All 32 teams have faced significant setbacks as key players have succumbed to serious injuries, affecting their availability for the upcoming season.
Season-Ending Injuries
The Atlanta Falcons, in particular, have been hit hard. Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason, suffered a catastrophic knee injury earlier in the month. Moore was seen leaving the practice field in an air cast on his right leg before being immediately transported to a local medical facility. This harrowing incident marks the end of Moore's season, with his return anticipated in 2025.
In another blow to the Falcons, their No. 74 overall pick Trice tore his ACL during his first preseason game. Trice's recovery is also expected to extend into 2025, joining Moore on the list of sidelined talent. Adding to the Falcons' woes, Evans will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon. Like his teammates, Evans is expected to return in 2025.
The injury epidemic extends beyond Atlanta. McCarthy, who suffered a torn meniscus, is ruled out until 2025. The same fate meets Williams, who tore his ACL during training camp, sidelining him until 2025 as well.
Injuries with Optimistic Timelines
Despite this grim outlook, some players have more optimistic timelines for their return. Milano, dealing with a torn biceps, is expected to miss the majority of the season but could be back by December.
Similarly, Herbig’s torn rotator cuff rules him out until December, but the team hopes for his significant contributions upon his return.
Philadelphia's Higbee will rejoin his team in Week 15 after recovering from ACL and MCL injuries. Meanwhile, Chubb's knee injury from last season has necessitated multiple surgeries. Chubb remains on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list and isn't anticipated to return until Week 8, having last played in Week 17.
Tennessee's top wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year both contend with knee injuries suffered earlier in August. They aim to be back on the field by Week 1, setting high expectations for their quick recovery.
Short-Term Setbacks
Other teams deal with shorter-term injuries. Curtis Samuel’s turf toe issue positions him as "week to week," with expectations for his return by Week 2. MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to be back by Week 3. Similarly, Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury and Brooks’ torn ACL will likely keep them off the field until Week 4.
In Cincinnati, the Bengals' first-round pick is nursing a strained pectoral muscle from their first preseason game but hopes to play by Week 2. Furthermore, the Lions' second-year running back’s recent hamstring injury is "not expected to be a serious issue," providing a silver lining for Detroit fans.
Warren, who suffered a hamstring injury during a preseason match against the Bills, is expected to return by Week 1. Additionally, Phillips, recovering from a torn Achilles, was activated off the PUP list last week and is also on track for a Week 1 comeback.
Coaches Forced to Adapt
Preseason injuries have undeniably disrupted team evaluations and preparations, compelling coaches and staff to adapt rapidly to the evolving challenges. Dave Canales, reflecting on the situation, expressed cautious optimism regarding Brooks' timeline, stating, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
As the NFL season approaches, every team must navigate this landscape of injuries, hoping to balance the immediate impact with long-term strategies, ensuring their rosters are as robust and resilient as possible moving forward.