The third week of NFL action proved to be tumultuous as multiple teams grappled with a slew of injuries, leaving coaching staffs scrambling for strategic adjustments.
Quarterbacks Facing Challenges
The Los Angeles Chargers had a scare when quarterback Justin Herbert, initially listed as questionable due to an ankle injury, aggravated the condition in the third quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Herbert underwent X-rays, which came back negative, offering a glimmer of hope. Taylor Heinicke stepped in during Herbert’s absence, providing a necessary but temporary relief.
On another front, Jordan Love of the Green Bay Packers has been dealing with a sprained MCL that has kept him out for the past two games. Head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed, "Love will at a minimum be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday." The Packers will monitor his progress on a day-to-day basis, improving their odds as they strategize for forthcoming matchups.
Wide Receivers and Key Players Sidelined
Philadelphia Eagles were hit hard as DeVonta Smith suffered a concussion and Britain Covey was ruled out with a shoulder injury, later diagnosed as a broken bone that will sideline him for multiple weeks. Additionally, Lane Johnson was also ruled out with a concussion.
The New York Giants faced their own setbacks, with Leonard Williams leaving the game due to a rib injury. Injury woes continued for the Giants as Adoree' Jackson did not appear on the field in the second half against the Cleveland Browns.
Offensive and Defensive Linemen Under Duress
The NFL’s offensive and defensive lines were not spared from injuries. The Chargers saw Rashawn Slater suffer a strained pectoral muscle, while the Cleveland Browns’ Jedrick Wills Jr. and Wyatt Teller both dealt with significant injuries. Teller's knee injury might land him on injured reserve, adding to the team's concerns.
Moreover, Erik McCoy’s groin injury is currently under evaluation. Kaleb McGary is believed to have suffered a sprained MCL, and Drew Dalman of the Falcons sustained a high-ankle sprain. Joe Alt’s sprained MCL will keep him off the field, though he fortunately won’t require surgery.
Kneeling Giants and Concussed Titans
Linebackers and defensive ends were not immune either. Joey Bosa was ruled out of the game due to injury. Myles Garrett, dealing with lower-leg ailments linked to foot issues, left his game momentarily for treatment but managed to return. This heralds more precautionary measures, with head coach Kevin Stefanski stating Garrett’s status would be evaluated on a day-to-day basis.
The Tennessee Titans’ defensive struggles were exemplified by Marcus Davenport’s significant elbow injury, which abruptly ended his season. The Titans continue to adapt as Brian Callahan informed reporters that further evaluations would be necessary.
Running Backs and Various Positions Affected
Sam Darnold was briefly sidelined during the Vikings’ win over the Texans due to a knee injury, but an MRI revealed a bone bruise with no structural damage. Meanwhile, Nick Herbig stepped in for Alex Highsmith following a groin injury sustained during the game.
The nightmare continued with the cornerbacks as Byron Murphy was sidelined with a hamstring injury against the Dolphins and Cory Trice Jr.’s hamstring issue kept him out of the game against the Chargers. Terell Smith was taken off due to a hip injury that saw him initially being considered doubtful, before it was confirmed that he couldn’t return.
Players Awaiting Recovery
Other players who will be missing in action for the foreseeable future include Kwity Paye, who will be out for an unspecified duration due to a quad injury, and Chidobe Awuzie, whose groin issue might soon place him on injured reserve. Marcus Epps’ torn ACL in the loss to Carolina is a particularly devastating blow, with expectations set for his return in 2025.
This week’s injuries reiterated the NFL's unforgiving nature, compelling coaching staff to continually realign their strategies. As week four approaches, the resilience of both players and coaching strategies will be put to the test. The thorough monitoring of injured players, as evidenced by Herbert’s case and reiterated by several head coaches, signals the league’s ongoing dedication to player welfare amid a physically demanding sport.