Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, and this preseason has been no exception. All 32 teams have faced significant setbacks as various key players have sustained serious injuries, impacting their availability for the upcoming season.
Season-Ending Setbacks
Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason, suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. The scene was grim as Moore was escorted off the practice field with an air cast on his right leg, immediately transported to a local medical facility. Unfortunately, his prognosis is a long one; Moore is expected to make his comeback in 2025.
The Falcons have had more than their share of bad luck, with their No. 74 overall pick, Trice, tearing his ACL in his first preseason game. Like Moore, Trice is also expected to return in 2025. These injuries compound the challenges for Atlanta, leaving significant gaps in their roster.
Evans, another key player, will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon. His return is similarly scheduled for 2025. Further compounding their injury woes, Williams, who tore his ACL during training camp, is likewise out until 2025.
Long-Term Absences
Elsewhere, Milano suffered a torn biceps, which will keep him off the field for the majority of the season. Optimistically, Milano's return is scheduled for December. He joins a growing list of players facing extended periods away from the game. McCarthy, with a torn meniscus, also sees a return date in 2025.
Chubb’s situation offers some complexity; his knee injury from last season resulted in multiple surgeries. Though his return is anticipated, it is not expected before Week 5. Chubb remains on PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) since Week 17, with a potential return by Week 8. This drawn-out recovery highlights the uncertainty and challenges that teams face in managing player health.
Shorter-Term Recoveries
Some players have timelines that are slightly more optimistic. Curtis Samuel, dealing with turf toe, is considered "week to week" and is expected to be back by Week 2. Similarly, MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to return by Week 3.
The Bengals' first-round pick encountered a strained pectoral muscle in their first preseason game and is expected to be ready by Week 2. Herbig’s torn rotator cuff, meanwhile, rules him out until December.
Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL place their return at approximately Week 4. Additionally, an optimistic Dave Canales commented that "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
Race Against Time
Tennessee finds itself in a race against time with its No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year. Both players aim for returns by Week 1 after suffering knee injuries in early August. The Titans’ roster resilience will be tested as they navigate these early challenges.
Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off PUP last week and is likewise expected back by Week 1. Meanwhile, Warren, who was sidelined in a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, is also earmarked for a return by the opening week.
The Lions' second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury this month, but it is "not expected to be a serious issue." Such updates offer a glimmer of hope amid the otherwise grim landscape of preseason injuries.
Resilient Players and Teams
Lastly, Higbee, recovering from both ACL and MCL injuries, will only be rejoining the roster by Week 15. These injuries force teams to adapt and rethink their strategies as key players are sidelined. Preseason injuries have significantly disrupted evaluations and preparations, yet teams must remain resilient and find ways to adapt.
As the regular season approaches, all eyes will be on how teams adjust to these setbacks and how swiftly injured players can return to fortify their squads.