As NFL training camps progress, the league is facing a significant wave of injuries that are affecting both preseason preparations and expectations for the regular season. A vast array of key players has been temporarily sidelined or seen their seasons end prematurely, leaving coaches and teams scrambling to adjust.
Justin Herbert Sidelined
The Los Angeles Chargers have been hit hard with the temporary loss of their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, who sustained a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert is set to wear a walking boot for two weeks. Despite this setback, the Chargers anticipate Herbert’s readiness for the regular season, though backup quarterback Easton Stick will take on the responsibility during Herbert's absence.
Carolina Panthers’ Woes
Similarly, the Carolina Panthers are grappling with the fallout of injuries. Backup quarterback Andy Dalton is out for a few weeks due to a quad injury. As a result, the Panthers are on the lookout for an additional quarterback to fill the gap in the interim.
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year also suffered a calf injury earlier this month and is expected to miss a few weeks of practice. This setback adds to the list of challenges the Panthers are facing as they navigate through their training camp period. Head coach Dave Canales remains optimistic, mentioning that rookie running back Jonathon Brooks, who is recovering from an ACL tear sustained in November, is expected to be ready around Week 3 or Week 4 of the season.
Injuries Across the League
The injury woes aren’t confined to just a few teams. Sam Williams has suffered a devastating blow with a season-ending ACL tear, while Samson Ebukam is facing a similar fate with a torn Achilles tendon. The list goes on as John Cominsky is on injured reserve due to a torn MCL and Moore is out for the season following a non-contact knee injury.
In other significant injuries, Rams’ offensive lineman Jonah Jackson is considered "week to week" with a shoulder injury, and Demario Davis is nursing a hamstring injury. Cam Robinson also left practice with a shoulder concern, while Anton Harrison has entered concussion protocol. Easton Stick might be taking the helm for the Chargers, but Easton Stick isn't the only backup thrust into the spotlight.
Setbacks and Expectations
Wide receiver Darious Williams is managing a hamstring strain, and Jermaine Burton is kept off the field by a minor ankle injury. Meanwhile, Rashod Bateman is dealing with soreness resulting from a rib/stomach hit. Furthermore, Sam Hubbard was carted off the practice field due to a knee injury, adding to the roster of players requiring medical attention.
The Saints are monitoring their second-year receiver, Nacua, who came into the year with high expectations after winning the Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023. Unfortunately, Nacua suffered a knee injury in practice and is now considered week-to-week.
Adding to an already complex recovery scenario, Ty Johnson was absent from recent practices due to a hamstring injury. On the other hand, James Cook had a brief hiatus from practice for personal reasons, but has since rejoined his team, showcasing a mixed bag of player availability during this crucial preparation period.
In terms of rookie setbacks, wide receiver Xavier Legette remains under observation after not finishing practice due to an unspecified ailment. Additionally, Jonathon Brooks, who is recovering from an ACL tear, continues to be closely monitored by the Panthers, with an expected return by midseason adding to the team’s roster unpredictability.
While these injuries create immediate concerns, the overarching impact on teams’ strategies and performances as they move into the regular season is yet to unfold. The league’s focus is now on rehabilitation, timely recoveries, and strategic adjustments to ensure that the teams can navigate these turbulent times and optimize their rosters for the season kickoff.