Injuries, an inevitable aspect of the NFL, have cast a long shadow over the preseason, impacting all 32 teams as crucial players face serious setbacks. The injury woes began early, with devastating consequences for several athletes and their teams' strategies for the upcoming regular season.
One of the most significant blows came when Moore, a key trade acquisition for Atlanta this offseason, suffered a season-ending knee injury. Moore’s departure from the practice field, marked by an air cast on his right leg and immediate transportation to a local medical facility, has left the Falcons reeling. His return is not expected until 2025, posing a strategic challenge for Atlanta.
Adding to the Falcons' misery was the loss of their No. 74 overall pick, Trice. Trice tore his ACL in his first preseason game and joins Moore on the sidelines, with a return also anticipated in 2025. This dual setback has significantly disrupted Atlanta's preparation and evaluation process.
Across the league, other teams are grappling with their own injury nightmares. Evans will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, marking his comeback for 2025. Similarly, Williams, who tore his ACL during training camp, shares the same expected timeline for return, as does McCarthy, following his torn meniscus.
Milano’s torn biceps is another significant injury, likely rendering him unavailable for the majority of the season. However, there is some optimism surrounding his potential return in December. Herbig, dealing with a torn rotator cuff, finds himself in a similar situation, with hopes pinned on a December comeback.
Shorter-Term Recoveries Offer Hope
Not all injuries spell long-term absences. Curtis Samuel’s turf toe, which keeps him "week to week," is expected to heal in time for him to rejoin by Week 2. Meanwhile, MVS, who suffered a neck sprain during a victorious preseason Week 2 clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers, is anticipated to return by Week 3.
Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury, coupled with Brooks' torn ACL, suggests their return might be likely around Week 4. Dave Canales remains optimistic, stating, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
The Cincinnati Bengals are concerned about their first-round pick, who sustained a strained pectoral muscle in their first preseason game. Nonetheless, he is expected to be ready by Week 2, offering some relief to the Bengals’ coaching staff.
Chubb’s knee issues from last season have required multiple surgeries, with his absence stretching into the current season. His return is not anticipated before Week 5, and he remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list since Week 17, aiming for a potential return by Week 8.
Varying Timelines Amid Optimism
Tennessee’s leading wideout, alongside the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, aims to be back by Week 1 after knee injuries sustained in early August. Similarly, the Lions’ second-year running back, who sustained a hamstring injury this month, is expected to recover quickly and not face serious time off the field.
Phillips, who tore his Achilles, has been activated off the PUP list last week and targets a return by Week 1. Warren, who was sidelined in a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, also eyes a Week 1 comeback.
However, not everyone has a short recovery journey. Higbee's severe ACL and MCL injuries have set his return for Week 15, a significant wait for the player and his team.
Injuries this preseason have not just affected players but also disrupted team evaluations and preparations. Coaches and staff are forced to adapt strategies on the fly, relying on backup plans and depth charts to fill the gaps left by unfortunate and untimely injuries.
Adapting to the New Reality
The resilience of NFL teams and their ability to adapt to such challenges will be tested as the season progresses. While some players eye a return sooner than others, the long-term absences forecasted for key players will undeniably shape the dynamics of their teams' performance and overall season trajectory. With preseason woes casting significant doubts, the journey to recovery and strategic adaptations will be a crucial narrative as the regular season unfolds.
