The Kansas City Chiefs extended their winning streak to four games with a victory over the Chargers, but the celebrations were dampened by a significant injury to star wide receiver Rashee Rice. Rice was carted off the field in the first half, and initial reports suggest he has suffered a torn ACL. The mood was somber as head coach Andy Reid succinctly encapsulated the team's feelings with, "Not good."
Meanwhile, the Bengals faced their own injury woes. Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson left midway through the fourth quarter during their matchup against the Panthers due to a neck injury. Multiple reports noted that Hendrickson's right arm was in a sling as he exited the stadium, raising concerns about his availability in the coming weeks.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers also experienced a setback with the loss of wide receiver Trey Palmer, who was diagnosed with a concussion during their game against the Eagles. The absence of Palmer, a key playmaker, was felt as the game progressed.
In another hard-fought encounter, the Colts narrowly held off the Steelers to secure a 27-24 victory. However, the win did not come without its own injury issues. Quarterback Anthony Richardson left the game in the first quarter after injuring his hip. Post-game, Richardson remained optimistic, stating, "Feeling a little sore. But great execution [by] everybody on the field. I think I'm going to be good. Just a little sore."
Adding to the Colts' injury list, running back Jonathan Taylor became questionable to return after an ankle injury sustained in the fourth quarter. Despite his injury, Taylor's spirits remained high. "I'm feeling pretty good. We came out with the win, so I'm excited to attack this week because this is going to be another tough one," he said.
The Chicago Bears had to rule out starting offensive lineman Teven Jenkins due to injured ribs, affecting their depth and protection against the Rams.
As for the Green Bay Packers, wide receiver Christian Watson was ruled out after sustaining an ankle injury during their showdown with the Vikings. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur shared some optimism, saying, "I have talked to Christian and he told me he thought it was just a sprain."
The Patriots faced a tumultuous game against the 49ers, losing several key players in the first half. Offensive tackle Caedan Wallace was carted off the field, followed by safety Kyle Dugger, who was ruled out post-injury. The team also saw starting center David Andrews unable to continue, further depleting their roster.
The New Orleans Saints dealt with multiple injuries as well. Taysom Hill, who plays both running back and tight end, exited with an abdomen injury. Linebacker Willie Gay Jr. also left the game due to a hand injury, compounding the Saints' challenges.
The Cleveland Browns had linebacker Jordan Hicks listed as questionable to return after he walked to the locker room in the first half of their game against the Raiders. To add to their worries, lineman Ethan Pocic left Week 4 with an ankle injury.
Finally, the Jets' safety Tony Adams was evaluated in the medical tent during their matchup against the Broncos, raising concerns about his availability going forward.
In summary, Week 4 was marked by an unfortunate series of injuries affecting numerous key players across the league. Teams are now left assessing the impact on their rosters and strategizing for the challenging weeks ahead.