Injuries have cast a long shadow over the 2024 NFL season, with several teams grappling with significant setbacks just weeks into their campaigns. From quarterbacks to linemen, the toll is widespread, leaving head coaches and fans alike holding their breath and adjusting strategies on the fly.
Rams, Dolphins Hit Hard
The Los Angeles Rams and Miami Dolphins are among the high-profile teams contending with substantial injury woes. Rams head coach Sean McVay faces perhaps his toughest test yet, as he strives to rally a squad that has been decimated by injuries. Meanwhile, the Dolphins have placed their standout quarterback Tua Tagovailoa on injured reserve after another head injury sustained against the Buffalo Bills. The absence of such a pivotal player could significantly alter the dynamics for Miami moving forward.
Patriots Struggle to Keep Key Players on the Field
The New England Patriots are another team finding themselves beleaguered by injuries. Key offensive linemen, including offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee) and guard Sidy Sow (ankle), are confirmed out. Linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) are also on the sidelines. Adding to the woes, center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are listed as questionable. The depth of the Patriots' roster is being tested at every turn.
Jets and Steelers Suffer Key Absences
For the New York Jets, linebacker Jermaine Johnson II is ruled out with an Achilles injury, and linebacker C.J. Mosley remains questionable due to a toe injury. "His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play," an insider suggests, casting doubt on Mosley's availability for the upcoming game.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are also navigating choppy waters. They are operating under the assumption that they will miss their star quarterback Russell Wilson for the game against the Chargers. Rookie Roman Wilson is limited by an ankle injury, which adds another layer of complexity to their preparation.
Giants and Browns Facing Major Setbacks
The Giants' practice sessions have also been disrupted, with cornerback Nick McCloud (knee) being the sole absentee on Wednesday's practice. Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) were limited participants, indicating the Giants' defensive unit isn't at its full strength.
In Cleveland, significant players like tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) did not practice. Kevin Stefanski noted, "It's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday," which could be a critical blow to the Browns' offensive plans. Limited participation from other key players, such as edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back) and cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), compounds the Browns' challenges.
Packers, Titans, and Bears Deal with Nagging Injuries
On a possibly more optimistic note for the Green Bay Packers, quarterback Jordan Love has returned to practice. However, running back Josh Jacobs (back), tight end Tucker Kraft, and several others were limited, with key figures like offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder) missing from practice altogether.
The Tennessee Titans had only running back Tyjae Spears absent from practice due to an ankle injury, potentially easing some concerns for Titans fans. The Bears, however, were missing notable players like wideout Keenan Allen (heel). "Matt Eberflus said there is no timetable regarding the return of Allen," shedding little light on when the Bears might see one of their top receivers back in action.
Colts, Texans, Vikings, and Saints Hampered
In the midwest, the Indianapolis Colts list kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) on their injury report. For the Houston Texans, seven players, including running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot), didn't practice on Wednesday.
The Minnesota Vikings saw Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip) limited in practice, reflecting a cautious approach to keeping their stars healthy.
In New Orleans, linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) didn't practice. Head coach Dennis Allen indicated that the plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully.
Chargers and Broncos in Tough Spots
The Los Angeles Chargers were without quarterback Justin Herbert in practice due to an ankle issue. The Broncos are managing injuries to linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot), as they look to regroup for their next game.
Lions Endure Defensive Setbacks
The Detroit Lions saw four out of five players who didn't practice come from the defensive side of the ball. Linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring) were among the absentees. On the offensive line, Graham Glasgow (knee) did not participate in practice, though wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) managed to be a full participant, offering a glimmer of hope.
The high injury toll across the NFL paints a concerning picture moving forward. Teams are being forced to adapt rapidly, testing their depth and resilience as they push through a season fraught with physical tolls.