Injuries have cast a long shadow over the 2024 NFL season, with numerous teams grappling with significant setbacks just weeks into the campaign.
Key Players Sideline for the Dolphins and Patriots
The Miami Dolphins have taken a significant blow as standout quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been placed on injured reserve following another head injury sustained in the clash against the Buffalo Bills. This turn of events forces the Dolphins to find a strategic workaround to maintain their competitive edge in the absence of their star quarterback.
Over in New England, the Patriots are facing their own injury woes. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) are confirmed to miss upcoming games, leaving substantial gaps in the lineup. Adding to their concerns, center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are all listed as questionable, casting uncertainty over their participation. Coach Bill Belichick certainly has his work cut out for him to navigate these injuries effectively.
Jets and Steelers Struggling with Injuries
The New York Jets' linebacker Jermaine Johnson II is out due to an Achilles injury, further depleting the squad. The team is also monitoring linebacker C.J. Mosley, who remains questionable with a toe injury. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers are bracing for a significant setback, operating under the assumption that they will miss star quarterback Russell Wilson for their game against the Chargers. Rookie Roman Wilson is also limited by an ankle injury, adding to the Steelers' injury list.
Giants' and Browns' Lineup Troubles
The New York Giants faced similar challenges during practice, with cornerback Nick McCloud out due to a knee injury and players like Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) limited participants. Coach Brian Daboll must find ways to adapt with key defensive players sidelined or not at full capacity.
For the Cleveland Browns, tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) did not practice on Wednesday, which adds to their woes. Limited practice participants included edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee). Cleveland's head coach, Kevin Stefanski, acknowledged the challenges, stating, "It's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday."
Packers, Titans and Colts Updates
In Green Bay, quarterback Jordan Love returned to practice on Wednesday, providing a glimmer of hope for the Packers. However, the team still grappled with injuries, with running back Josh Jacobs (back), tight end Tucker Kraft, and several offensive and defensive linemen limited in practice. Absentees like offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf), and cornerback Carrington Valentine (ankle) pose ongoing challenges for the Packers.
Meanwhile, the Tennessee Titans are dealing with running back Tyjae Spears' absence from practice due to an ankle injury, a critical component in their offensive scheme. The Indianapolis Colts' injury report includes kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip), further complicating their preparations.
Texans, Vikings, and Saints Face Setbacks
The Houston Texans have identified seven players who did not practice Wednesday, including running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot). The Minnesota Vikings are notably missing Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip), both limited in practice.
The New Orleans Saints have their share of injuries, with linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) not practicing. Coach Dennis Allen commented on Hill's condition, indicating plans to "manage his workload carefully," aiming to have him limited in upcoming sessions. Furthermore, cornerback Marshon Lattimore missed action during the Saints' recent blowout win over the Cowboys due to a hamstring injury.
Chargers, Broncos, Lions, and Bears Update
The Los Angeles Chargers face a critical situation with quarterback Justin Herbert missing practice due to an ankle issue. On the other hand, the Broncos deal with linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) managing injuries, impacting their defensive strategies.
The Detroit Lions are another team seeing a depleted defensive lineup, with four out of five injured players on the defensive side. Linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring) didn’t practice, while offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee) did not participate. Wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown, however, was a full practice participant, which could provide an offensive boost.
Lastly, the Bears were without key figures like wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh), with head coach Matt Eberflus stating there's "no timetable regarding the return of Allen."
The 2024 NFL season continues to be a battle of endurance as teams navigate a minefield of injuries, attempting to maintain their competitive edge amidst setbacks.