NFL Training Camps See Surge in Injuries
As NFL training camps heat up, a notable increase in player injuries has left several teams recalibrating their plans for the upcoming season. The rash of setbacks has sidelined key players and cast a shadow of uncertainty over franchises’ readiness.
Chargers' Star Quarterback Sidelined
The Los Angeles Chargers find themselves without their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, due to a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert, who will be donning a walking boot for the next two weeks, is expected to recover in time for the regular season. In the interim, backup quarterback Easton Stick will assume the starting role, hoping to maintain momentum for the Chargers during Herbert's absence.
Panthers' Quarterback Quandary
The Carolina Panthers are also grappling with quarterback issues. Backup QB Andy Dalton is sidelined for a few weeks due to a quad injury. In response, the Panthers are actively seeking to bolster their quarterback roster. Head coach Dave Canales remains optimistic amidst the turmoil, sharing that he expects rookie running back Jonathon Brooks to return around Week 3 or Week 4 this season, following Brooks’ recovery from an ACL tear sustained last November.
Injury Bug Bites Hard Across the League
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year has joined the list of walking wounded, suffering a calf injury in early August. According to Kyle Shanahan, this critical player is likely to miss a few weeks of practice. Meanwhile, the Saints' second-year receiver Nacua, who clinched the Offensive Rookie of the Year title in 2023, is now week-to-week with a knee injury sustained at a recent practice.
Significant Losses and Setbacks
Other significant injuries have dotted the landscape of NFL training camps. Rams' offensive lineman Jonah Jackson is "week to week" with a shoulder injury, while the Jaguars are dealing with mixed misfortunes: Cam Robinson left practice due to a shoulder injury, and Anton Harrison is in concussion protocol. Additionally, linebacker Demario Davis pulled a hamstring, further complicating the team's practice sessions.
Some injuries are unfortunately season-ending, such as those incurred by Sam Williams and Samson Ebukam. Williams suffered a devastating torn ACL, while Ebukam is out for the season with a torn Achilles tendon. The injury woes continue with YaYa Diaby's high-ankle sprain and John Cominsky being placed on injured reserve due to a torn MCL.
Non-Contact Injuries Raise Concerns
Receiver/returner Moore’s diagnosis of a season-ending knee injury following a non-contact incident has sparked concern and highlighted the unpredictable nature of training camp injuries. Similarly, rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette remains under observation after not completing practice due to an unspecified injury.
Short-Term Absences
Several players are dealing with less severe injuries. Jermaine Burton is currently sidelined with a minor ankle injury, and Rashod Bateman is dealing with soreness from a hit to his ribs and stomach. Furthermore, Sam Hubbard’s knee injury has necessitated his removal from practice via cart, and Darious Williams is managing a hamstring strain. However, not all absences are due to injuries: James Cook's temporary hiatus from practice was for personal reasons, and he has now rejoined the team.
Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List
As training camps continue, some players have commenced the pre-season on reserve lists like the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, adding another layer of complexity to team preparations.
The wave of injuries sweeping across the NFL's training camps has shaken numerous teams, prompting both immediate tactical adjustments and long-term strategic planning. As the countdown to the regular season intensifies, all eyes will be on teams’ medical and coaching staffs while they navigate these challenging waters.