As training camps progress across the NFL, the league finds itself grappling with a surge of injuries impacting several prominent players. These setbacks are reshaping team dynamics just weeks before the regular season kicks off.
Chargers Hit Hard
The Los Angeles Chargers were dealt a significant blow when star quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert is expected to be in a walking boot for two weeks before beginning a return-to-play protocol. Despite this, he is anticipated to be ready by the start of the regular season. In the meantime, backup Easton Stick will take first-team reps, a crucial test as the team navigates this period without their key offensive leader.
Panthers Scramble for Quarterback Solutions
Over in Carolina, quarterback Andy Dalton is sidelined with a quad injury, leaving the Panthers actively seeking a replacement to fill the gap during his recovery. Dalton's absence is a significant concern for a team looking to stabilize their offensive schemes.
Offensive Stars Sidelined
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is nursing a calf injury that emerged in early August. He is expected to miss a few weeks of practice and is unlikely to feature in any preseason games ahead of the 2024 campaign. Meanwhile, Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs exited practice early on Monday due to a hamstring injury, adding to the team’s growing list of concerns.
Rookies on the Mend
Panthers rookie running back Jonathon Brooks is recovering from an ACL tear sustained last November. Head coach Dave Canales expects Brooks to be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season. For the Jaguars, tackle Anton Harrison is in concussion protocol, while his teammate Cam Robinson, who only played nine games last season due to a suspension and knee issue, now contends with a shoulder injury.
Wide Receivers Plagued by Injuries
Tennessee wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is expected to miss four to six weeks due to a knee injury. The Titans, under new head coach Brian Callahan, are anticipated to adopt a more pass-oriented offense, making Hopkins' absence even more impactful. Similarly, Saints wide receiver Josh Downs is dealing with a high-ankle sprain, hindering his preseason preparations.
Defensive Setbacks
Cowboys edge rusher Sam Williams suffered a torn ACL and will miss the 2024 season, a significant loss for a defense that anticipated him playing a supporting role behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence. The Bengals face their own challenges with edge rusher Sam Hubbard exiting Sunday’s practice with a knee injury, though it is not believed to be serious. Additionally, Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon during practice, ruling him out for the entire season, and Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta is out for the year with a torn ACL.
Coaches Navigate the Chaos
Head coaches across the league are navigating these setbacks with a blend of caution and optimism. Rams coach Sean McVay emphasized taking the process "a week at a time," reflecting a common sentiment as teams adapt and adjust their strategies. Saints' head coach Dennis Allen candidly remarked on the universal challenge, stating the need to "figure out how to stay healthy," a priority echoed by coaching staff and medical teams across the NFL.
In this preseason fraught with unpredictability, the resilience and adaptability of both players and coaches will be tested. As the regular season approaches, the league collectively holds its breath, hoping these injuries are temporary hurdles rather than lasting setbacks for their 2024 campaigns.