As NFL training camps forge ahead, a series of injuries have tested the depth and resilience of numerous teams, altering the landscape just as the 2024 regular season inches closer. Head coaches are adapting on the fly, attempting to keep their squads competitive amid the growing list of sidelined stars.
The Los Angeles Chargers absorbed a significant setback when their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, sustained a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert will don a walking boot for the next two weeks before embarking on a return-to-play protocol. Regardless, there is optimism that he will be ready once the regular season kicks off. In Herbert’s absence, backup quarterback Easton Stick will take on first-team reps, hoping to maintain the team's momentum through training camp.
In Carolina, the Panthers are also facing quarterback challenges. Veteran Andy Dalton will miss at least a couple of weeks due to a quad injury. Head Coach Frank Reich and the Panthers' front office are actively searching for another quarterback to fill the gap while Dalton recuperates. Such disruptions could provide an unexpected opportunity for younger, less established players to demonstrate their potential in a more significant role.
Award-Winning Talent on the Mend
Meanwhile, the reigning Offensive Player of the Year is dealing with a calf injury picked up in early August. The injury is anticipated to keep him out of practice for a few weeks, and he is unlikely to participate in any preseason games. This cautious approach underscores the team's desire to have him fully healthy for the trials of the regular season.
Hamstring Concerns in Detroit
Over in Detroit, running back Jahmyr Gibbs had to leave practice early after suffering a hamstring injury. The Lions' coaching staff will hope the injury is not severe, as Gibbs is expected to play a significant role in their offensive scheme this season.
Rookie running back Jonathon Brooks of the Carolina Panthers is still on the road to recovery from an ACL tear he suffered last November. Head Coach Dave Canales remains optimistic, suggesting that Brooks could make his season debut by Week 3 or Week 4, adding another layer of depth to Carolina’s backfield.
Key Wide Receivers Sidelined
The Tennessee Titans have their own concerns with wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins nursing a knee injury. Hopkins is projected to miss four to six weeks, an absence that complicates the Titans' offensive plans under the new leadership of Head Coach Brian Callahan. Notably, Callahan's tenure is expected to see the team shift towards a more pass-oriented attack, underscoring the critical nature of Hopkins' health.
Saints wide receiver Josh Downs is similarly ailing, managing a high-ankle sprain sustained on August 7. Downs’ injury further strains the Saints’ receiving corps, necessitating strategic adjustments by coaching staff led by Dennis Allen, who emphasized the need to "figure out how to stay healthy" amidst these setbacks.
In Baltimore, second-year receiver Puka Nacua finds himself in a week-to-week situation following a knee injury suffered during practice, adding another name to the Ravens' injury list.
Defense Takes a Hit
Defensive players are similarly affected, notably the Dallas Cowboys’ edge rusher Sam Williams, who has been ruled out for the entirety of the 2024 season with a torn ACL. Williams was poised to provide crucial support behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence.
Another defensive setback involves Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard, who left Sunday’s practice with a knee injury. Thankfully, initial reports indicate that Hubbard’s injury is not seen as serious, offering a glimmer of hope for the Bengals’ defensive aspirations.
In a more significant blow, edge rusher Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon during practice and will miss the entire 2024 season, reflecting the perils and unpredictability of NFL preseasons.
Offensive Line Woes
Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta is also out for the year after an ACL tear, further challenging Tampa Bay’s offensive line depth. Meanwhile, Bengals’ first-round pick Amarius Mims faces an uncertain timetable due to a pectoral strain, which could potentially keep him out at the start of the regular season.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are likewise managing injuries along their offensive line. Tackle Cam Robinson is coping with a shoulder injury after a season hindered by suspension and a knee issue, while fellow tackle Anton Harrison entered concussion protocol, adding to head coach Doug Pederson's concerns regarding line stability.
As training camp injuries mount, head coaches across the league are grappling with these disruptions with what Rams coach Sean McVay describes as a "week at a time" approach. The ultimate goal remains clear: adapt, persevere, and prepare as best as possible for the grueling season ahead.