As NFL training camps forge ahead, teams are grappling with a spate of injuries to key players that could significantly impact the early part of the season. The Los Angeles Chargers, in particular, were hit hard when their star quarterback Justin Herbert sustained a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. This setback will keep Herbert in a walking boot for two weeks before he begins a return-to-play protocol. The Chargers remain optimistic that he will be ready for the regular season, while backup quarterback Easton Stick takes on first-team reps in the interim.
In Carolina, the Panthers are dealing with their own quarterback woes as Andy Dalton is sidelined with a quad injury. The team is actively seeking another quarterback to fill the gap during Dalton's recovery, which is expected to take at least a couple of weeks.
Adding to the list of concerns, the reigning Offensive Player of the Year is dealing with a calf injury that surfaced in early August. This critical player is likely to miss several weeks of practice and is not expected to participate in any preseason games ahead of the 2024 campaign.
Lions and Panthers Face Running Back Challenges
The Detroit Lions encountered a setback when running back Jahmyr Gibbs left practice early due to a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, the Panthers' rookie running back Jonathon Brooks is in recovery mode from an ACL tear he sustained last November. Head coach Dave Canales indicated that Brooks is expected to be ready by Week 3 or Week 4 of the season.
Titans, Saints, and Ravens Receiver Woes
In Tennessee, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is coping with a knee injury that will sideline him for four to six weeks. The Titans are anticipated to shift to a more pass-oriented offense under new head coach Brian Callahan, making Hopkins' absence even more crucial.
The Saints are also dealing with injury troubles, as wide receiver Josh Downs is nursing a high-ankle sprain that occurred on August 7. The Ravens have their own receiver issues, with second-year player Puka Nacua considered week-to-week following a knee injury sustained during practice.
Cowboys and Bengals Defensive Setbacks
Defensive injuries are also taking a toll across the league. Cowboys edge rusher Sam Williams suffered a torn ACL and will miss the entire 2024 season. Williams was expected to play a supporting role behind stars Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence.
Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard exited Sunday’s practice due to a knee injury, although it is not believed to be serious. Another blow for the Bengals is the loss of first-round pick Amarius Mims, who is dealing with a pectoral strain that could sideline him for the start of the regular season.
Elsewhere, Samson Ebukam of the Buccaneers tore his Achilles tendon during practice and will be out for the 2024 season. Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta is also out for the year after tearing his ACL, adding to Tampa Bay's woes.
Jaguars' Offensive Line Woes
The Jacksonville Jaguars are facing difficulties with their offensive line. Tackle Cam Robinson has a shoulder injury, a continuation of his troubles from last season when he played only nine games due to a suspension and knee issues. Adding to their woes, tackle Anton Harrison is currently in the concussion protocol, leaving the Jaguars with significant gaps to fill.
As head coaches across the league navigate these challenges, cautious optimism prevails. "Figure out how to stay healthy," emphasized Saints' head coach Dennis Allen. Similarly, Rams coach Sean McVay highlighted the need to take things "a week at a time."
With the regular season fast approaching, teams are in a race against time to rehabilitate their players and reconfigure strategies to maintain competitive edge. Injuries are a part of the game, but in this crucial pre-season period, they are more than just a setback; they are a test of depth and resilience for every team involved.