As NFL training camps unfold, the league finds itself grappling with an alarming rise in injuries. These setbacks have impacted numerous teams, sidelining key players and, in some cases, prematurely ending seasons. Here’s a closer look at the injury woes that have plagued the NFL thus far.
Star Players Sidelined
The Los Angeles Chargers are currently navigating the absence of their star quarterback, Justin Herbert. Herbert suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot, necessitating the use of a walking boot for the next two weeks. Despite this immediate setback, the team remains optimistic about his availability for the regular season. In the interim, backup quarterback Easton Stick will step into the spotlight, aiming to keep the Chargers on track during Herbert’s absence.
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers are also dealing with the loss of a significant player. Backup quarterback Andy Dalton has been sidelined by a quad injury and is expected to miss a few weeks. Given this situation, the Panthers are actively searching the market for an additional quarterback to bolster their roster.
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year, who sustained a calf injury in early August, will likely miss a few weeks of practice. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the unfortunate news, highlighting the temporary blow to the team’s training regimen.
Recoveries and Setbacks
The Panthers have additional injury concerns with rookie running back Jonathon Brooks. Brooks is recovering from an ACL tear he sustained last November, and head coach Dave Canales indicated optimism about Brooks’ return around Week 3 or Week 4 of the season. In the midst of these injuries, Ty Johnson has been absent from recent practices due to a hamstring injury, while James Cook had a temporary break from practice for personal reasons but has since rejoined the team.
Ongoing Injury Battle
The injury list doesn’t end there. The Rams’ offensive lineman Jonah Jackson is described as "week to week" with a shoulder injury, and Cam Robinson also exited practice due to a shoulder ailment. Additionally, Anton Harrison entered concussion protocol, while Demario Davis and Darious Williams sustained hamstring injuries.
Sam Williams’ season has come to an untimely end after tearing his ACL. In a similar vein, Samson Ebukam suffered a torn Achilles tendon, and YaYa Diaby is contending with a high-ankle sprain. John Cominsky landed on injured reserve after tearing his MCL, effectively ending his season early.
The season has also seen non-contact injuries with severe outcomes. Notably, receiver/returner Moore was carted off the field and later diagnosed with a season-ending knee injury. Jermaine Burton’s minor ankle injury and Rashod Bateman’s rib/stomach soreness serve as less severe but still concerning setbacks. Sam Hubbard had to exit practice on a cart due to a knee injury, adding to the litany of health issues facing the league.
Young Talent Facing Challenges
Rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette remains under observation after not completing practice due to an unspecified injury. The Saints’ second-year receiver Nacua, who enters Year 2 with high expectations after winning the Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023, is now considered week-to-week following a knee injury sustained at practice. According to ESPN, Nacua’s situation is being closely monitored, with the team hoping for a swift recovery.
Some players have also begun training camps listed as physically unable to perform (PUP), adding to the challenges that teams face in keeping their rosters healthy and prepared for the upcoming season.
As teams navigate these injury setbacks, the focus shifts to recovery and preparedness for the regular season. With a mixture of hope and caution, coaches and players alike are working tirelessly to ensure that when the time comes, they will be ready to compete at the highest level.