As the 2024 NFL season charges forward, injuries are casting a long shadow, affecting numerous teams just weeks into the campaign. With key players sidelined, coaches are grappling with the challenge of rallying their decimated squads.
The Toll on Teams
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay faces an uphill battle as he attempts to navigate his team through a slew of injuries. Similarly, the Miami Dolphins are reeling after placing their standout quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, on injured reserve following another head injury sustained against the Buffalo Bills.
For the New England Patriots, the injury list seems endless. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) are confirmed out. Adding to their woes, key players like center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are listed as questionable.
The New York Jets are also feeling the pinch. Linebacker Jermaine Johnson II has been ruled out due to an Achilles injury. Meanwhile, linebacker C.J. Mosley's status remains uncertain as he deals with a toe injury. "His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play," a source close to the team remarked.
Uncertainty in Pittsburgh and Giants' Struggles
The Pittsburgh Steelers are prepping for their game against the Chargers under the assumption that they'll miss star quarterback Russell Wilson. Compounding their issues, rookie Roman Wilson is limited by an ankle injury.
On the other coast, the New York Giants are also grappling with health issues. Cornerback Nick McCloud was absent from practice on Wednesday due to a knee injury. Key players including Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) were limited in practice, casting doubts over their availability for the next game.
Injuries Pile Up in Cleveland and Green Bay
The Cleveland Browns are nursing several injuries. Tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) did not practice on Wednesday. Reflecting on Njoku's condition, head coach Kevin Stefanski stated, "It's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday." Limited participants in practice included edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee).
Over in Green Bay, there was a glimmer of hope as quarterback Jordan Love returned to practice. However, numerous players, including running back Josh Jacobs (back) and tight end Tucker Kraft, were limited in practice. Absences were notable as well, with offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf), and cornerback Carrington Valentine (ankle) not participating.
Worries for Titans, Bears, and Colts
The Tennessee Titans' injury woes continue, with running back Tyjae Spears sidelined due to an ankle injury. The Chicago Bears were without key figures like wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh). Bears’ Head Coach Matt Eberflus commented, "There is no timetable regarding the return of Allen."
In Indianapolis, the Colts' injury report included kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip), highlighting the challenges that lay ahead for these struggling teams.
Struggles in Houston, Minnesota, and New Orleans
The Houston Texans are grappling with a series of injuries as well, including notable absentees like running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot) who didn’t practice on Wednesday.
The Minnesota Vikings experienced limited practice participation from Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip), hinting at potential lineup adjustments.
The New Orleans Saints saw linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) sit out of practice. Head coach Dennis Allen indicated, "The plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully." Cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) missed action during the Saints' recent blowout win over the Cowboys.
On the Mend in Los Angeles, Denver, and Detroit
The Los Angeles Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert missed practice due to an ankle issue, adding to the growing list of concerns for the team.
Denver Broncos are also managing injuries with linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) both affected.
The Detroit Lions, too, are not spared; four out of five Lions' players who didn't practice were on the defensive side. Notable absentees included linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion), cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring), and offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee). On the brighter side, wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) was a full practice participant, providing a much-needed boost to the squad.
As NFL teams across the league continue to contend with an array of injuries, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining how effectively they can adapt and persevere through this strenuous phase of the season.