Injuries have always been an unavoidable reality in the NFL, and this preseason has been no exception. All 32 teams have experienced significant setbacks due to key players sustaining serious injuries, which inevitably affect their availability for the upcoming season. As training camps wrap up and the regular season looms, teams are scrambling to adjust their strategies and rosters.
The Atlanta Falcons were dealt a severe blow when Moore, a key offseason acquisition, suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. Moore’s dramatic exit from the practice field, marked by an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility, highlighted the severity of his injury. Sadly, he won't grace the field until 2025, leaving a significant gap in the Falcons' lineup.
The Falcons' misery was compounded when their No. 74 overall pick, Trice, tore his ACL in his first preseason game. Trice's development and contribution will be on hold until 2025, adding to the Falcons’ list of long-term absentees.
The injury woes for Atlanta do not end there. Evans is another player who will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, with his return also anticipated in 2025. These setbacks are a bitter pill to swallow for the team’s coaching staff and fans.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys have their own challenges. Williams, who tore his ACL during training camp, joins the growing list of players expected to return in 2025. His absence will be keenly felt throughout the season.
Buffalo Bills’ linebacker Milano is also facing significant downtime due to a torn biceps, which will keep him off the field for the majority of the season. However, there is optimism surrounding his situation, with a hopeful return slated for December.
Curtis Samuel of the Washington Commanders is dealing with turf toe but is considered "week to week" and should be back by Week 2. This is one of the relatively minor injuries, offering a ray of hope for his team's early-season plans.
The Kansas City Chiefs' MVS sustained a neck sprain during a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Fortunately, his recovery timeline is more favorable, with a likely return by Week 3. Similarly, Bengals' first-round pick, who strained a pectoral muscle in their first preseason game, is expected to be ready by Week 2.
On a more positive note, Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off PUP last week and is expected to be back by Week 1. His return will bolster his team just in time for the season opener.
In contrast, the Detroit Lions’ second-year running back's hamstring injury appears to be "not a serious issue," offering some relief to the team's backfield depth. Also, Warren, who was sidelined in a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, is expected back by Week 1.
However, injury problems persist with McCarthy, who suffered a torn meniscus and is expected to return in 2025. Moreover, Chubb's knee injury from last season necessitated multiple surgeries, with his return not anticipated before Week 5. Chubb remains on PUP since Week 17, with a potential return by Week 8.
In Philadelphia, Herbig’s torn rotator cuff has ruled him out until December, adding another challenge for the Eagles to navigate this season.
Tennessee's No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year aim for returns by Week 1 after suffering knee injuries in early August. Their ability to recover swiftly could significantly impact the Titans' early-season performance.
On the defensive end, Bills' Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury, along with Brooks' torn ACL, will likely keep them off the field until Week 4. Dave Canales' optimism regarding Brooks' return was palpable as he noted, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
Preseason injuries have unquestionably disrupted evaluations and preparations, forcing coaches and staff to adapt swiftly. As teams brace for the start of the regular season, the ability to manage and mitigate these injuries will play a crucial role in shaping their fortunes. The resilience and adaptability of each team's roster and coaching staff will be put to the test starting Week 1.