As NFL training camps unfold, the landscape of the upcoming season is already being redefined by a series of injuries to pivotal players. With the regular season rapidly approaching, teams across the league are facing significant challenges that could impact their performance and strategies.
Quarterback Concerns in Los Angeles and Carolina
The Los Angeles Chargers' aspirations took a hit when their franchise quarterback, Justin Herbert, suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert, an emerging star in the league, is expected to be in a walking boot for two weeks before he can commence his return-to-play protocol. Despite the setback, the Chargers are hopeful that Herbert will be ready for the regular season. In his absence, backup Easton Stick will be taking over the first-team reps during practice sessions.
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers are dealing with their own quarterback dilemma. Veteran Andy Dalton is sidelined for at least a few weeks due to a quad injury. In response, the Panthers are actively looking to bring in another quarterback to cover for Dalton during his recuperation. This urgency underscores the importance of quarterback depth as teams navigate the final stages of their preseason preparations.
Offensive Key Players Sidelined
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is also on the injury list, nursing a calf injury that came to light in early August. This star running back is expected to miss a few weeks of practice and is unlikely to participate in any preseason games, making his readiness for the 2024 campaign a topic of concern for his team.
Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs left practice early this week due to a hamstring injury, adding to Detroit's worries. Elsewhere, the Panthers are monitoring the recovery of rookie running back Jonathon Brooks, who is progressing from an ACL tear incurred last November. Head coach Dave Canales remains optimistic, projecting Brooks to be game-ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season.
Wide Receiver Woes
In Tennessee, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins faces a prolonged absence due to a knee injury that will keep him out for four to six weeks. The Titans, under new head coach Brian Callahan, are expected to implement a more pass-oriented offense, making Hopkins’ absence even more poignant.
The injury bug has also bitten New Orleans and Baltimore. Saints wide receiver Josh Downs is dealing with a high-ankle sprain suffered on August 7, while Ravens' second-year receiver Puka Nacua is considered week-to-week after sustaining a knee injury during practice.
Defensive Setbacks
The defensive units have not been spared either. Cowboys edge rusher Sam Williams' season is over before it began, as he suffered a torn ACL which will sideline him for all of 2024. This injury is particularly critical as Williams was poised to be a key rotational player behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence.
Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard's knee injury, sustained in practice, is not believed to be serious. However, there is more dire news for the team as Samson Ebukam will miss the entire season due to a torn Achilles tendon. Additionally, Bengals first-round pick Amarius Mims is facing several weeks off because of a pectoral strain, which could jeopardize his availability for the start of the regular season.
At the same time, the Buccaneers have lost guard Sua Opeta for the year following an ACL tear, adding to the list of significant early losses.
Offensive Line Troubles
Protecting their quarterbacks will be a demanding task for the Jaguars, who are grappling with injuries along their offensive line. Tackle Cam Robinson, who had already missed substantial time last season due to a suspension and knee issue, is now dealing with a shoulder injury. Adding to their woes, fellow tackle Anton Harrison is currently sidelined, having entered the concussion protocol.
With the heat of preseason intensifying and the regular season looming, head coaches are tasked with navigating these challenges with a mix of strategic adjustments and cautious optimism. As Saints' head coach Dennis Allen put it, teams must "figure out how to stay healthy" while Rams coach Sean McVay emphasizes taking it "a week at a time." Such prudent approaches will be crucial as they aim to manage their rosters effectively and maintain competitive edge amid the cascading injuries.