Injuries are the dominant storyline as the 2024 NFL season unfolds, casting a significant shadow over several teams. Key players are already sidelined weeks into the campaign, leaving coaches and fans anxious about the future.
Los Angeles Rams Battle Adversity
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay faces a daunting task ahead. With a decimated squad, McVay is in the unenviable position of rallying his team amidst the challenges presented by numerous injuries.
Dolphins Lose a Key Player
The Miami Dolphins have taken a massive blow as standout quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been placed on injured reserve following another head injury sustained in the game against the Buffalo Bills. This development leaves a significant void in the Dolphins' lineup and raises concerns about Tagovailoa's long-term health.
New England Patriots' Troubles Compound
The New England Patriots are experiencing a rash of injuries that will see offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) on the sidelines. Additionally, center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are listed as questionable, further complicating the Patriots' preparation and game plans.
New York Jets' Defensive Concerns
The New York Jets are also grappling with significant injuries. Linebacker Jermaine Johnson II (Achilles) is out, while C.J. Mosley's status remains questionable due to a toe injury. This uncertainty leaves the Jets in a precarious position as they navigate the early parts of the season.
Pittsburgh Steelers Adjust Plans
The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for a difficult matchup against the Chargers, expecting to miss their star quarterback Russell Wilson. In addition, rookie Roman Wilson is limited by an ankle injury, which further strains the Steelers' squad depth.
Giants' Injury List Grows
The New York Giants' roster has also been hit by injuries, with cornerback Nick McCloud (knee) missing practice. Limited practice participation from players like Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) further diminishes their readiness. Thibodeaux's limitations in practice are particularly concerning as his role is crucial in the Giants' defensive schemes.
Cleveland Browns' Star Players Side-lined
The Cleveland Browns are navigating their own injury woes, with tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) missing practice. Kevin Stefanski stated, "It's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday," which is a significant blow to their offense. Furthermore, several key players, including edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee), were limited in their practice participation.
Packers Regain Key Player Amidst Other Woes
The Green Bay Packers saw the return of quarterback Jordan Love to practice, a hopeful sign amidst a sea of concerns. However, the Packers still had players like running back Josh Jacobs (back) and tight end Tucker Kraft, along with several offensive and defensive linemen, limited in practice. Key players who missed practice included offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf), and cornerback Carrington Valentine (ankle).
Titans, Bears, and Colts Face Infirmary Issues
The Tennessee Titans had running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) as their sole player unable to practice. Meanwhile, the Bears were without wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh), with head coach Matt Eberflus noting, "There is no timetable regarding the return of Allen." The Indianapolis Colts aren't faring much better, with kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) on their injury report.
Texans and Vikings Hit Hard
The Houston Texans are missing seven players from practice, including pivotal figures like running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot). Similarly, the Minnesota Vikings are dealing with the limited participation of Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip).
New Orleans Saints Monitor Key Players
The New Orleans Saints didn't see linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), or tight end Taysom Hill (chest) in practice. With regards to Hill, head coach Dennis Allen noted, "The plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully." Additionally, cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) missed action during the Saints' recent blowout win over the Cowboys.
Random Absences Across the League
The Los Angeles Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert also missed practice due to an ankle issue, a concerning development for the team. Moreover, the Broncos' linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) are dealing with injuries. The Detroit Lions saw four out of their five absentees coming from the defensive side, including linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring). Offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee) also missed practice, while wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) was a full practice participant.
With injuries mounting across the league, teams are left to adapt and strategize without some of their key players. The early season turmoil makes it abundantly clear that depth and player management will be pivotal as the NFL season progresses.