As NFL training camps are in full swing, teams are confronted with a flurry of injuries that are reshaping rosters and posing significant challenges just weeks before the regular season kicks off. The list of sidelined players is extensive and includes some big names spanning various positions and teams, adding layers of complexity to the preparations.
Chargers Grapple with Herbert's Absence
The Los Angeles Chargers have been hit particularly hard with star quarterback Justin Herbert sustaining a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert is expected to spend two weeks in a walking boot before he can begin a return-to-play protocol. Despite the injury, there is optimism within the organization that Herbert will be ready for the regular season. In the interim, backup quarterback Easton Stick will take on first-team reps, as the Chargers look to maintain their momentum.
Panthers Seek Solutions Amid Dalton's Setback
In Carolina, the Panthers are dealing with their own quarterback dilemma as Andy Dalton is sidelined with a quad injury. Expected to be out for at least a couple of weeks, the Panthers are actively exploring options to bring in another quarterback to bridge the gap during Dalton's recovery. This search is imperative for the team to maintain stability as they navigate the initial phase of the season.
Injuries Across the League
Elsewhere in the league, the reigning Offensive Player of the Year is nursing a calf injury that emerged earlier this month. Consequently, he is anticipated to miss a few weeks of practice and is not expected to participate in any preseason games. The Lions' running back Jahmyr Gibbs has also found himself on the injury report after leaving practice early with a hamstring issue.
Carolina finds itself in further disarray with rookie running back Jonathon Brooks still recovering from an ACL tear he sustained last November. Head coach Dave Canales is hopeful that Brooks will be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season, offering a glimmer of hope amid the spate of injuries.
Wide Receiver Woes
Tennessee's DeAndre Hopkins is dealing with a knee injury that will see him out for four to six weeks. This comes at a crucial time as the Titans are expected to employ a more pass-oriented offense under new head coach Brian Callahan. The Saints face their own setbacks with wide receiver Josh Downs dealing with a high-ankle sprain, which occurred earlier this month. In a similar vein, Ravens' second-year receiver Puka Nacua is considered week-to-week following a knee injury sustained during practice.
Defensive Concerns
Defensive players haven’t been spared either. The Cowboys will unfortunately be without edge rusher Sam Williams for the entire 2024 season due to a torn ACL. Williams was anticipated to play a crucial supporting role behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence. Adding to the Bengals' worries, edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited practice with a knee injury, though it is believed to be non-serious. In a more severe case, Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon during practice and will miss the entire season.
The Bengals have more injury concerns with their first-round pick, Amarius Mims, expected to miss several weeks because of a pectoral strain. His return timeline suggests he might miss the start of the regular season, compounding the team's challenges.
Offensive Line Troubles
In Jacksonville, the tackle position has been hit hard with injuries as well. Cam Robinson is dealing with a shoulder issue after missing much of the previous season due to a suspension and a knee problem. Additionally, rookie tackle Anton Harrison is sidelined, currently navigating the concussion protocol.
The Buccaneers’ offensive line also took a significant hit, losing guard Sua Opeta for the year because of a torn ACL, forcing adjustments and potentially further acquisitions to shore up the line.
Amid this wave of injuries, head coaches are doing their best to remain optimistic and adapt to the new challenges. Saints' head coach Dennis Allen stressed the necessity to "figure out how to stay healthy," while Rams coach Sean McVay acknowledged the complexities of managing player conditions "a week at a time."
As the start of the regular season looms, these injuries underscore the precarious nature of the sport, where the fortunes of an entire season can pivot on the health of key players. Teams across the league are now tasked with navigating these unpredictable waters with cautious optimism and strategic adjustments.