The grueling reality of NFL preseason has reared its head once again, with all 32 teams grappling with significant injuries that are altering the landscape of the upcoming season. Among the most notable casualties, Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason, endured a devastating knee injury earlier this month. His dramatic exit from the practice field, marked by an air cast on his right leg, has left fans and the team reeling. Sadly, Moore will be sidelined until the 2025 season.
The Falcons, already hit hard, saw their No. 74 overall pick, Trice, tear his ACL in his first preseason game. Trice, like Moore, won't be back on the field until 2025. The injury bug has also bitten Evans, who will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, with an expected return in 2025. Meanwhile, Williams joins the list with a training camp ACL tear, postponing his competitive return until 2025 as well.
Impact on Team Strategies
The extensive injured list doesn't end there. Milano, suffering a torn biceps, will be absent for the majority of the season, though his return is optimistically slated for December. Similarly, McCarthy’s torn meniscus and Herbig’s torn rotator cuff will keep them off the field until December and beyond.
Chubb’s lingering knee issues from the previous season have required multiple surgeries, delaying his return until at least Week 5. Currently on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list since Week 17 of last season, Chubb’s presence is dearly missed, with hopes pinned on his return by Week 8.
Optimism Amid Setbacks
In a league where injuries have significant tactical implications, there are glimmers of hope. Notably, Tennessee’s No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year both suffered knee injuries in early August but are determined to be back by Week 1. Phillips, recovering from a torn Achilles, was recently activated off PUP and is also expected to return by Week 1. Warren, who was sidelined by a hamstring injury during a game against the Bills, and Brooks, dealing with his own torn ACL, are on track to rejoin their teams soon. Dave Canales, expressing optimism, stated, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks’ return."
Incidents That Distract
Preseason injuries significantly disrupt team evaluations and preparations. The Lions’ second-year running back’s hamstring injury, albeit "not expected to be a serious issue," is a case in point. As teams strive to integrate rookies and fine-tune strategies, these setbacks necessitate immediate adaptation. Curtis Samuel, considered "week to week" with turf toe, is expected back by Week 2. MVS, recovering from a neck sprain, is likely to return by Week 3, and Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury, alongside Brooks’ torn ACL, will keep them off the field until Week 4.
Another hit comes to the Bengals’ camp, with their first-round pick straining a pectoral muscle in their first preseason game. Fortunately, he is anticipated to be ready by Week 2. Higbee, who suffered both ACL and MCL injuries, will rejoin his team by Week 15, giving a much-needed boost during the critical final stretch of the season.
The relentless tide of injuries has indeed thrown a wrench into the gears for NFL teams, but it also showcases the resilience and adaptability demanded by the sport. As the regular season looms, teams will continue to adjust, looking forward to the eventual recuperation of their key players. Until then, fans and franchises alike brace for what is shaping up to be another unpredictable and challenging NFL season.