The 2024 NFL season, still in its early weeks, is already marred by a significant wave of injuries affecting several teams across the league. This spate of injuries has left many franchises scrambling for contingency plans and hoping for speedy recoveries for their key players.
Rams Face Uphill Battle
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay faces perhaps his toughest task yet, rallying a squad ravaged by injuries. With pivotal players sidelined, McVay must find a way to keep the Rams competitive in a fiercely contested division.
Major Hits for the Dolphins
Among the most high-profile injuries is Miami Dolphins' standout quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who has been placed on injured reserve following another head injury suffered against the Buffalo Bills. The Dolphins' offense, heavily reliant on Tagovailoa's leadership and playmaking ability, faces an uncertain future without their star signal-caller.
Patriots Injuries Pile Up
The New England Patriots are dealing with a deluge of injuries themselves, with several players confirmed out or listed as questionable. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) are all sidelined. Center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are all in doubt for upcoming games.
Jets Suffer Key Defensive Losses
The New York Jets are under similar duress, with linebacker Jermaine Johnson II ruled out due to an Achilles injury. Fellow linebacker C.J. Mosley is dealing with a toe injury and remains questionable. These injuries place added pressure on the Jets' defense, which has already shown signs of struggle this season. Regarding Mosley's condition, some indications suggest he might be "pretty physically compromised if he does play."
Steelers Without Star Quarterback
The Pittsburgh Steelers face a potentially grim scenario as they prepare to miss star quarterback Russell Wilson for their upcoming game against the Chargers. Rookie Roman Wilson is also limited by an ankle injury, further complicating the team's preparations.
Giants and Browns Report Significant Injuries
The New York Giants list cornerback Nick McCloud out of practice due to a knee injury, while Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) were limited participants. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns have their own set of injury woes. Tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) missed practice. Head coach Kevin Stefanski mentioned, "it's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday." Limited participants included edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee).
Packers and Titans Deal with Practice Setbacks
The Green Bay Packers' quarterback Jordan Love made a return to practice, but several teammates remain limited or absent. Running back Josh Jacobs (back) and tight end Tucker Kraft were among those who practiced on a limited basis, while offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), and wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf) did not practice. For the Tennessee Titans, running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) was notably absent from practice.
Bears, Colts, and Texans Facing Uncertainties
The Chicago Bears missed key figures like wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh) in their recent practices. Head coach Matt Eberflus conveyed the uncertainty surrounding Allen by stating, “there is no timetable regarding the return of Allen.” The Indianapolis Colts reported kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) on their injury list, while the Houston Texans had seven players absent from practice, including notable names like running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot).
Vikings, Saints, and Chargers Joining the Injury Lists
The Minnesota Vikings saw Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip) limited in practice sessions. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints' linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) did not practice. Dennis Allen, head coach of the Saints, indicated that "the plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully." Furthermore, cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) missed action during the Saints' recent blowout win over the Cowboys.
For the Los Angeles Chargers, quarterback Justin Herbert missed practice due to an ankle issue, adding another layer of concern for the team's offensive unit.
Lions and Broncos Update
The Detroit Lions are also battling a series of injuries with four of five players who didn't practice belonging to the defensive side. Linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring) didn't partake in recent sessions. Offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee) also failed to practice, although wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) was a full participant.
The Broncos have their share of injury dilemmas as well. Linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) are among those impacted.
As the season progresses, teams will need to dig deep into their rosters and foster resilience to navigate these challenging times and maintain their aspirations for success.