The NFL preseason is always a turbulent time, and this year has proven no different as injuries have swept through all 32 teams. These setbacks have altered the landscape of the upcoming season, sidelining several key players who now face lengthy recoveries.
Significant Setbacks
Moore, who was a significant offseason acquisition for Atlanta, suffered a devastating knee injury earlier this month, dashing his hopes for contributing to the Falcons this year. The severity of his injury became evident when he exited the practice field with an air cast on his right leg and was immediately taken to a local medical facility. With his return projected for 2025, Atlanta will have to look for alternative ways to fill the gap in their roster.
In a frustrating twist of fate, Trice, the Falcons’ No. 74 overall pick, also tore his ACL during his first preseason game. Trice's recovery timeline aligns with Moore's, with both players aiming for a 2025 return. This double blow puts considerable strain on the Falcons' defensive plans for the upcoming season.
Similarly, Evans and Williams find themselves on the lengthy list of players with season-ending injuries. Evans suffered a torn patellar tendon, while Williams tore his ACL during training camp. Both are not expected to return until 2025. These injuries can't be understated as they leave significant voids in their respective teams' rosters.
Partial Season Misses
Milano's torn biceps will see him miss the majority of the season, with a hopeful return scheduled for December. Herbig’s torn rotator cuff also places him on the sidelines until December, causing him to miss critical games as his team vies for playoff contention.
Then there's Chubb, who is still wrestling with the fallout from last year's knee injury that required multiple surgeries. Chubb's return is not anticipated until at least Week 5, and he remains on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list. Chubb’s situation remains fluid, with a potential return by Week 8 providing some hope to his team and fans alike.
Week-to-Week Prognosis
Curtis Samuel offers a glimmer of positive news among the injury carnage. Suffering from turf toe, he is considered "week to week" and is expected back by Week 2. Meanwhile, MVS, who sprained his neck in a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, should make his return by Week 3. Such news is encouraging for their respective teams, who face immediate challenges but can anticipate early reinforcements.
Injury Woes and Timelines
Additional injuries complicate multiple teams' early-season strategies and evaluations. The Bengals' first-round pick, who sustained a strained pectoral muscle in their first preseason game, should be ready by Week 2. Similarly, Dane Jackson’s hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL are likely to keep them off the field until Week 4. Such timelines necessitate strategic adjustments as teams look to hit their stride early in the season.
Tennessee faces its challenges with knee injuries affecting their No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year. Both aim to return by Week 1, which will be critical if Tennessee hopes to maintain its offensive prowess from the get-go.
Prolonged Absences
Other players including Higbee, who will rejoin his team by Week 15 following ACL and MCL injuries, face a longer road to recovery. McCarthy's torn meniscus has similarly ruled him out until 2025, presenting another long-term challenge for team roster management.
Next, there is the Lions' second-year running back, whose recent hamstring injury is fortunately not expected to be serious, providing a boost of optimism amid the generally somber injury news. Phillips, activated off PUP last week, and Warren, sidelined by a hamstring issue during a preseason game, are expected back by Week 1, easing some of the preseason anxiety for their teams.
Coaching Concerns
Coaches and staff across the league face disrupted evaluations and preparations, with preseason injuries forcing rapid adaptation. Dave Canales, optimistically viewing Brooks' situation, noted, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return." Given the rigorous demands of the NFL, such glimmers of hope offer some reassurance as teams look to keep their season ambitions on track.
The impact of these injuries cannot be overstated. Teams are scrambling to fill the gaps left by sidelined stars, and the preseason turmoil underscores just how crucial depth and resilience are in this unforgiving league. As Week 1 approaches, fans, teams, and analysts alike are holding their breath, hoping for a more fortuitous twist in the narrative of the 2023 NFL season.