The 2024 NFL season has been marred by a spate of injuries that are reshaping team rosters and impacting performances significantly, just weeks into the campaign. Several teams are reeling from the loss of key players, and the ripples are being felt league-wide.
Rams and Dolphins Hit Hard
The Los Angeles Rams are one of the most affected teams, with head coach Sean McVay facing an uphill battle to rally a squad besieged by injuries. The situation isn't much better for the Miami Dolphins, who have placed their star quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, on injured reserve following another head injury he suffered in a clash against the Buffalo Bills. This is a significant blow for the Dolphins, who will now have to navigate the next few weeks without their offensive leader.
Patriots and Jets Struggle with Absences
The New England Patriots are also dealing with numerous injuries. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) have all been confirmed out. The Patriots have further concerns, with center David Andrews (hip), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) listed as questionable.
Meanwhile, the New York Jets are grappling with injuries of their own. Linebacker Jermaine Johnson II (Achilles) is ruled out, and linebacker C.J. Mosley remains questionable with a toe injury. Head coach Robert Saleh has indicated that Mosley will be "pretty physically compromised" if he does play.
Steelers' Quarterback Woes
The Pittsburgh Steelers are operating under the assumption that star quarterback Russell Wilson will miss their upcoming game against the Chargers. The Steelers' situation is further complicated by rookie Roman Wilson's limited participation in practice due to an ankle injury.
Giants and Browns Down Key Players
The New York Giants are without cornerback Nick McCloud due to a knee injury, which kept him out of practice on Wednesday. During the same practice session, players Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) were limited participants, adding to head coach Brian Daboll's concerns.
In Cleveland, the Browns are dealing with a slew of injuries as well. Tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) did not practice on Wednesday. Kevin Stefanski, the head coach, noted, "It's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday." Limited participants for Cleveland included edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee).
Packers and Titans' Injury Reports
The Green Bay Packers received a bit of good news with quarterback Jordan Love's return to practice on Wednesday. However, the Packers still faced challenges with several other players limited, 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).
For the Tennessee Titans, running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) was the sole player unable to practice.
League-wide Injury Concerns
The Chicago Bears are also feeling the pressure with significant absences, including wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh). Head coach Matt Eberflus stated, "There is no timetable regarding the return of Allen," leaving fans and teammates in uncertainty.
The Indianapolis Colts' kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) headlined their injury report, concerns the team must address quickly.
Seven players from the Houston Texans did not practice on Wednesday, including standout running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot). The Minnesota Vikings were also hit hard, with Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip) limited in their practice sessions.
The New Orleans Saints reported linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) among those not practicing. Head coach Dennis Allen has expressed that Hill's participation will be managed carefully, "The plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully."
Chargers, Broncos, Lions, and Other Teams
In Los Angeles, Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert missed practice due to an ankle issue, adding to the team's growing injury list. The Broncos are similarly challenged with linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) dealing with injuries.
The Detroit Lions reported that four of their five players not practicing were on the defensive side. Linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring) did not practice, and offensive lineman Graham Glasgow was sidelined due to a knee issue. However, wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) was a full participant in practice, a glimmer of hope for the Lion's offense.
As the teams continue to adjust and make strategic decisions, the early part of the NFL season remains in flux, and fans will be watching closely to see how these challenges play out on the field.