The third week of NFL action proved to be tumultuous as multiple teams grappled with a slew of injuries, significantly impacting their rosters and requiring immediate strategic adjustments by coaching staff.
Justin Herbert's Struggle Against Steelers
Justin Herbert, who was initially listed as questionable due to an ankle injury, aggravated the injury in the third quarter against the Steelers. Taylor Heinicke stepped in under center as Herbert underwent X-rays, which fortunately came back negative. "Herbert will be carefully monitored throughout the week," said one of the team insiders.
Sam Darnold's Knee Scare
Sam Darnold, who briefly exited the Vikings' win over the Texans with a knee injury, underwent an MRI that revealed a bone bruise but no structural damage. This was a relief for the Vikings, who hope to see Darnold back on the field soon.
Jordan Love's MCL Injury
Jordan Love has been sidelined for the past two games with a sprained MCL. Good news for Packers fans: "Love will, at a minimum, be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday," head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed. The Packers are taking Love's progress day-by-day, evaluating his readiness to return to full action.
Eagles' Concussion Woes
The Eagles also faced setbacks as DeVonta Smith suffered a concussion, ruling him out for the remainder of the game. Similarly, Britain Covey was ruled out with a shoulder injury later diagnosed as a broken bone, sidelining him for multiple weeks. Adding to the woes, Lane Johnson was also ruled out with a concussion.
Chargers and Browns Defensive Issues
The Chargers faced their share of challenges with Rashawn Slater suffering a strained pectoral muscle and Jedrick Wills Jr. going down in the second half. Additionally, Wyatt Teller's knee injury may potentially land him on injured reserve, while James Hudson's shoulder injury adds further concerns.
Falcons Injury Update
For the Falcons, Erik McCoy's groin injury and Kaleb McGary's suspected sprained MCL are under close evaluation. Drew Dalman sustained a high-ankle sprain, further complicating the team's injury issues. Joe Alt, also dealing with a sprained MCL, will be off the field but won't require surgery.
Key Defensive Players Affected
Adding to defensive concerns, Leonard Williams exited with a rib injury, while Byron Murphy was sidelined with a hamstring injury. Jeffery Simmons' elbow injury is being monitored day-to-day. Myles Garrett, dealing with lower-leg ailments linked to foot issues, left the game momentarily for treatment but managed to return. "Head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged that Garrett’s status would be evaluated day-to-day."
Injuries Impacting Key Players
The season took a brutal turn for Joey Bosa, who was ruled out of the game, and Alex Highsmith, who could not return due to a groin injury. Marcus Davenport sustained a significant elbow injury, abruptly ending his season. Kwity Paye will also be out for an unspecified duration due to a quad injury.
Secondary Woes
Adoree' Jackson did not appear on the field in the second half against Cleveland, further stressing the secondary. Cory Trice Jr.'s hamstring injury kept him out of the Chargers matchup. Terell Smith, who was initially considered doubtful due to a hip injury, was later confirmed as unable to return.
Long-Term Injuries
Chidobe Awuzie's groin issue might see him on injured reserve soon. The gruesome news for Marcus Epps, who tore his ACL in the loss to Carolina, is that he is expected to be ready for play in 2025, marking a significant recovery period.
This week’s injuries emphasize the ongoing need for strategic adjustments by coaching staff. As the season progresses, teams will need to adapt and find ways to cope with these critical losses. The coming weeks will undoubtedly test the depth and resilience of these NFL squads.