Injuries have continued to cast a dark shadow over the 2024 NFL season, with several teams grappling with the significant absence of key players just weeks into the campaign.
Rams and Dolphins Hit Hard
Head coach Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams is tasked with the uphill job of rallying a squad that has been heavily hit by the injury bug. Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins have experienced a severe blow to their roster. Standout quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been placed on injured reserve following another head injury sustained in a game against the Buffalo Bills. The team's offensive dynamics are bound to shift as they adjust to his absence.
Patriots' Injury Woes
The New England Patriots are also struggling, with offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) all confirmed out. Additionally, center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are listed as questionable. This myriad of injuries poses a significant challenge to the Patriots’ depth and resilience.
Jets Face Dilemma
In some unfortunate news for the New York Jets, linebacker Jermaine Johnson II is ruled out with an Achilles injury, with fellow linebacker C.J. Mosley's status remaining uncertain due to a toe injury. "His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play," a source noted, highlighting the tough call the Jets' coaching staff faces.
Steelers' Outlook Dim
Operating under the assumption that star quarterback Russell Wilson will miss their game against the Chargers, the Pittsburgh Steelers must prepare for a significant offensive shift. Additionally, rookie Roman Wilson is limited by an ankle injury, putting further strain on the team’s depth chart.
Giants' and Browns' Setbacks
The New York Giants are not immune to the ongoing injury crisis. Cornerback Nick McCloud missed practice due to a knee injury. Simultaneously, players Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux, who is dealing with a shoulder issue, were limited participants in practice, raising questions about their effectiveness in upcoming games.
On the other hand, the Cleveland Browns are dealing with their own wave of injuries. Tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) did not practice on Wednesday. Furthermore, Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee) were limited participants.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski commented, "It's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday," underscoring the Browns' troubling injury landscape.
Packers' Quarterback Returns
The Green Bay Packers had a bit of good news with quarterback Jordan Love returning to practice on Wednesday. However, the team had several limited participants including running back Josh Jacobs (back) and tight end Tucker Kraft. Missing from practice were offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf), and cornerback Carrington Valentine (ankle).
Titans, Bears, and Colts Struggles
Meanwhile, the Tennessee Titans saw running back Tyjae Spears sidelined with an ankle injury, being the sole player unable to practice. For the Chicago Bears, wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh) were unable to participate in practice, drawing a cloud over their upcoming performances. Bears' coach Matt Eberflus remarked, "There is no timetable regarding the return of Allen," which places his availability in limbo.
The Indianapolis Colts also have kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) nursing injuries, potentially impacting their special teams and defensive capabilities.
Texans and Vikings Concerns
Seven Houston Texans players, including running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot), didn’t practice on Wednesday. The Minnesota Vikings had Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip) limited in practice, putting a damper on their offensive prospects.
Saints' Strategic Moves
The New Orleans Saints are managing a slew of injuries. Linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) did not practice. Cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) also missed action during the Saints' recent blowout win over the Cowboys. Coach Dennis Allen has indicated a careful management plan for Hill, saying, "The plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully."
Chargers and Broncos Missing Key Players
The Los Angeles Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert missed practice due to an ankle issue, presenting a major hurdle for their offensive unit. The Denver Broncos are similarly plagued with linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) nursing injuries.
Lions' Defensive Depth Affected
The Detroit Lions reported that four out of five of their players who didn't practice were on the defensive side. Linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring) were among the absentees. Offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee) also didn't practice, but wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) was a full participant, offering a sliver of good news for the team.
As the season progresses, teams will need to navigate these challenges as best as they can, with many star players sidelined and the dynamics of the league continually shifting as a result.