The third week of NFL action proved tumultuous as multiple teams grappled with a slew of injuries that could reshape their seasons. A series of unfortunate events saw several key players sidelined, leaving teams to make swift and strategic adjustments.
Injury Woes Shake Up the League
For the Chargers, the uncertainty surrounding Justin Herbert's availability was a major talking point. Initially listed as questionable due to an ankle injury, Herbert aggravated his situation in the third quarter against the Steelers. As he underwent X-rays, Taylor Heinicke stepped in under center. Fortunately for the Chargers, X-rays for Herbert came back negative, though his status remains a crucial concern. "Herbert will be carefully monitored throughout the week," an insider noted.
Meanwhile, in Minnesota, Sam Darnold faced his own challenges. The Vikings' quarterback exited their win over the Texans with a knee injury. An MRI later revealed a bone bruise but, crucially, no structural damage, allowing some hope for a swift return to action.
Over in Green Bay, quarterback Jordan Love has been out for the past two games with a sprained MCL. The team is cautiously optimistic about his return as Love will be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday. "Love will at a minimum be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday," confirmed head coach Matt LaFleur. The Packers are taking Love's progress day-by-day, indicating a careful and measured approach to his recovery.
Concussions and Critical Injuries
Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith suffered a concussion and was promptly ruled out for the remainder of their game. Compounding the Eagles' woes, Britain Covey also sustained a shoulder injury, later diagnosed as a broken bone that will sideline him for multiple weeks. Adding to the list, Lane Johnson was ruled out with a concussion, highlighting the physical toll the game exacts on its athletes.
Several offensive linemen across the league faced significant setbacks. Mekhi Becton did not finish the first half due to an undisclosed injury, while Rashawn Slater suffered a strained pectoral muscle. The Browns’ offensive line took a hit with Jedrick Wills Jr. going down in the second half and Wyatt Teller being ruled out with a knee injury—a situation serious enough to potentially land him on injured reserve. James Hudson also sustained a shoulder injury in the game against New York.
Defensive Setbacks
Defensive players were not spared either. Erik McCoy's groin injury is currently being evaluated, and Kaleb McGary is believed to have suffered a sprained MCL. Drew Dalman sustained a high-ankle sprain, a painful injury that often requires an extended recovery period. Joe Alt's sprained MCL will keep him off the field, though surgery won't be necessary.
On the Giants' side, Leonard Williams left the game with a rib injury and was ruled out. Their defensive lineup was further weakened as Adoree' Jackson did not appear on the field in the second half against Cleveland.
For the Titans, head coach Brian Callahan will have to navigate the absence of Marcus Davenport after a significant elbow injury ended his season prematurely. Kwity Paye will also be out for an unspecified duration due to a quad injury, further testing their defensive depth.
Day-to-Day Evaluations
Several teams are dealing with players whose statuses are being evaluated on a day-to-day basis. Jeffery Simmons' elbow injury falls into this category, as Titans head coach Brian Callahan told reporters. Myles Garrett, dealing with lower-leg ailments linked to foot issues, left the game momentarily for treatment but managed to return. Head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged that Garrett’s status would be evaluated day-to-day.
As for Joey Bosa, he was ruled out of the game, and Alex Highsmith could not return due to a groin injury, with Nick Herbig stepping in for Highsmith. Cory Trice Jr. missed the Chargers matchup due to a hamstring injury, while Terell Smith was taken off with a hip injury—initially considered doubtful but later confirmed as unable to return.
Season-Ending and Long-Term Injuries
In terms of season-ending and long-term injuries, Marcus Epps tore his ACL in the loss to Carolina and is expected to be ready for play in 2025. Unfortunately, there’s a possibility that Chidobe Awuzie’s groin issue could see him on injured reserve soon.
These injuries emphasize the ongoing need for strategic adjustments by coaching staff. As the mid-season approaches, the resilience and depth of teams across the NFL will be severely tested, making every game and every player more critical than ever.