The NFL training camps, a crucial period for teams to evaluate their rosters and prepare for the upcoming season, have been overshadowed by an alarming increase in player injuries. As the league edges closer to the regular season, several notable players find themselves sidelined, affecting team dynamics and strategies.
Significant Injuries to Key Players
One of the most significant losses is the Los Angeles Chargers' star quarterback, Justin Herbert. Herbert is currently recovering from a plantar fascia injury in his right foot and will be in a walking boot for two weeks. Despite this setback, the Chargers remain hopeful for his return in time for the regular season. In his absence, backup quarterback Easton Stick will step in, a move that undoubtedly changes the landscape for the team’s offensive preparations.
The Carolina Panthers are facing their challenges as well, with backup quarterback Andy Dalton sidelined for a few weeks due to a quad injury. This development leaves the Panthers actively searching the market for additional quarterback support, a task not easily accomplished at this stage of the preseason.
Offensive Talent Sidetracked
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year also fell victim to the injury bug, suffering a calf injury in early August. According to Kyle Shanahan, "The reigning Offensive Player of the Year suffered a calf injury in early August and will likely miss a few weeks of practice." This injury temporarily halts the player's momentum as they navigate their recovery process.
The Panthers are also monitoring the recovery of their rookie running back, Jonathon Brooks, who is on the mend from an ACL tear sustained last November. Head coach Dave Canales remains optimistic, sharing, "He expects rookie running back Jonathon Brooks to be ready around Week 3 or Week 4 of this season."
Other notable incidents include the absence of Ty Johnson from recent practices due to a hamstring injury and James Cook's brief leave from practice for personal reasons, though he has since rejoined the team.
Defensive Challenges
Injuries have not spared the defensive side of the ball. Rams' offensive lineman Jonah Jackson is facing a "week to week" status with a shoulder injury, while Cam Robinson similarly left practice citing shoulder issues. Adding to the woes, Anton Harrison has entered concussion protocol and Demario Davis is dealing with a hamstring injury.
Tragically, some players have seen their seasons come to a premature end. Sam Williams sustained a season-ending injury with a torn ACL, and Samson Ebukam suffered a torn Achilles tendon. Additionally, John Cominsky is on injured reserve due to a torn MCL, while receiver and returner Moore was carted off following a non-contact injury and later diagnosed with a season-ending knee injury.
Minor Setbacks and Day-to-Day Observations
While some injuries spell longer-term absences, others are considered minor setbacks. Jermaine Burton is dealing with an ankle injury, and Rashod Bateman faces soreness from a rib and stomach hit. Rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette's situation is still under observation after he did not finish practice due to an unspecified injury.
In a slightly more optimistic light, Saints' second-year receiver Nacua, who enters Year 2 on the heels of winning the Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023, is week-to-week with a knee injury. ESPN reported, "Nacua enters Year 2 with high expectations after winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023. He suffered a knee injury at Saturday's practice, however, and is now considered week-to-week."
As these injuries continue to impact training camps across the league, teams are forced to adapt and make strategic decisions that will shape the early part of their seasons. While the exact return timetables for many of these players remain uncertain, the hope for most teams is to have their key players back on the field as soon as possible, fully recovered and ready to compete at the highest level. Until then, backups and new signings will be pivotal in maintaining team performance and navigating preseason challenges.