As the football season approaches, teams across the league are grappling with a plethora of injuries, and this week has been particularly revealing. Key players are facing challenges as they aim to recover in time for the start of the season. Here's a look at the latest updates from camps around the NFL.
Bengals' Status Report
The Cincinnati Bengals had some mixed news this week. Ja'Marr Chase, one of their star wide receivers, showed up to practice but was limited in participation. However, quarterback Joe Burrow was a full participant, bringing some much-needed optimism to the team. With Burrow in top condition, the Bengals can hope for a strong start to their campaign.
Significant Absences
Marquise Brown is out with a shoulder injury, leaving a gap in his team's offensive lineup. Similarly, defensive players Adisa Isaac and Rasheen Ali are sidelined with hamstring and neck injuries, respectively. These absences could significantly impact their teams' defensive capabilities.
Green Bay Packers' Concerns
The Green Bay Packers are reporting limitations with six players, including wide receiver Romeo Doubs and tight end Tucker Kraft. Doubs has been limited for two consecutive days, while Kraft's limitation on Wednesday marks a new development. Interestingly, the Packers did not hold a physical practice session; the designations were estimates. This cautious approach indicates the team’s strategy to manage their players' health closely as the season nears.
Critical Injuries Across the League
Devin White has been ruled out due to an ankle injury, paving the way for Nakobe Dean to make his fifth career start. Isaac Seumalo did not practice and is likely to miss upcoming games. Other notable absentees include Javon Solomon and Xavier Weaver, both dealing with oblique injuries, and Jamal Adams, who is suffering from a hip injury.
Falcons and Steelers Update
Kyle Pitts and Nate Landman of the Atlanta Falcons were limited in practice, raising concerns about their readiness. For the Pittsburgh Steelers, Troy Fautanu, Roman Wilson, and Jaylen Warren also faced limitations during practice, potentially impacting the team's preparations.
Bears and Texans Roundup
The Chicago Bears are dealing with injury concerns for key players like Keenan Allen and Montez Sweat, both limited in practice. Texans safety M.J. Stewart missed practice due to a knee injury, adding another name to the lengthening injury list. Despite these issues, Bears GM Ryan Poles reassured fans, stating that "Allen’s injury would not impact his Week 1 status."
Colts and Panthers Developments
The Indianapolis Colts had wide receiver Josh Downs and kicker Matt Gay absent from practice. In response to the situation, the Colts re-signed kicker Spencer Shrader to their practice squad. Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers saw absences from Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble, both tight ends, with Miles Sanders being limited due to a finger injury. The Panthers bolstered their roster by signing rookie Messiah Swinson off the Packers' practice squad.
Saints and Giants Injury Situations
Willie Gay Jr., Pete Werner, and Marshon Lattimore were limited in practice for the Saints. Saints coach Kevin O'Connell provided updates on Jordan Addison and Jalen Nailor, noting, "Jordan Addison moved around well and that they anticipate increasing his workload as the week progresses." He also added, "Jalen Nailor is a bit behind Addison but is progressing well." For the New York Giants, players Drew Lock, Micah McFadden, Dane Belton, and Gunner Olszewski faced practice limitations.
Updates from the Browns and Commanders
The Cleveland Browns reported eight players limited in practice. Jedrick Wills remains sidelined since his surgery last December, posing a potential setback for the team's offensive line. Over at the Washington Commanders camp, Daron Payne and Marcus Mariota were both limited in practice.
Bucs and Steelers Concerns
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced a challenging week with Logan Hall and Chase McLaughlin not practicing. Notably, the Buccaneers currently do not have a kicker on their practice squad. Adding to the list of constraints, DJ Reader was limited in practice on Wednesday, although head coach Dan Campbell remains optimistic about Reader's chances of playing on Sunday.
As the new season approaches, teams must navigate these injury-related hurdles to ensure they hit the ground running. Keep an eye on practice reports and injury updates, as they will play a crucial role in determining the shape of the teams heading into Week 1.