Injury Waves Hamper NFL Training Camps
As NFL training camps are in full swing, a troubling trend has emerged: a significant uptick in player injuries. Teams across the league are grappling with the temporary or season-ending loss of key personnel, casting shadows over their preparations for the regular season.
Chargers’ Star Quarterback Sidelined
The Los Angeles Chargers are currently facing a daunting challenge with their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, sidelined by injury. Herbert suffered a plantar fascia injury in his right foot, necessitating the use of a walking boot for the next two weeks. However, the team remains optimistic, anticipating his readiness for the regular season. Stepping into Herbert's shoes, backup quarterback Easton Stick is set to take the helm during his absence.
Panthers on the Hunt for Quarterback Support
The Carolina Panthers are also contending with quarterback woes. Backup quarterback Andy Dalton is sidelined for a few weeks due to a quad injury, leaving the team in search of additional roster support. The Panthers are exploring the market for a suitable quarterback to fill the void temporarily.
In the same camp, reigning Offensive Player of the Year has endured a calf injury, which will likely keep him off the practice field for a few weeks. Head coach Dave Canales provided insights on rookie running back Jonathon Brooks, who is recovering from an ACL tear sustained last November. Canales expressed optimism about Brooks' return, saying, "He expects rookie running back Jonathon Brooks to be ready around Week 3 or Week 4 of this season."
Ailments Affecting Stars Across Various Teams
Other teams are not immune to the preseason injury plague. The Rams’ offensive lineman Jonah Jackson is classified as "week to week" dealing with a shoulder injury, which adds pressure to the offensive line. Meanwhile, fellow team members Cam Robinson and Anton Harrison have experienced a shoulder injury and are in concussion protocol, respectively.
New Orleans Saints' second-year receiver Nacua, who enters Year 2 after winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023, is now week-to-week with a knee injury suffered at a recent practice. This setback is a blow to the Saints' offense, which had high expectations for Nacua's sophomore season.
Season-Ending Setbacks
Several players have encountered more severe setbacks. Sam Williams, a promising talent, sustained a season-ending ACL tear. Similarly, Samson Ebukam suffered a torn Achilles tendon, marking the end of his season before it even began. Receiver/returner Moore faced a grim diagnosis with a non-contact knee injury, which also concluded his season prematurely after being carted off the field.
Minor and Manageable Injuries
Some teams are dealing with manageable yet concerning injuries. Rashod Bateman faces soreness from a rib/stomach hit, while rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette is under observation after exiting practice with an unspecified injury. Bengals' Sam Hubbard experienced a knee injury, requiring him to leave practice on a cart—a worrying sign as the preseason progresses.
Other players recovering but expected to return soon include Demario Davis, who is working through a hamstring injury, and Ty Johnson, who missed recent practices due to a hamstring injury as well. Jermaine Burton is sidelined with a minor ankle injury, causing brief yet impactful absences during critical training sessions. James Cook had a temporary hiatus from practice for personal reasons but has since rejoined the team.
Teams Scramble to Adjust
With numerous players entering training camps on physically unable to perform (PUP) lists, teams are scrambling to adjust their strategies and bolster their rosters to compensate for these injuries. The grueling nature of the NFL preseason is once again highlighting the physical toll on these athletes, with each team hoping to minimize the impact of these injuries as the regular season looms closer.
The coming weeks will be crucial for the injured players' recoveries and the teams' preparations. As training camps continue, coaching staffs remain vigilant, monitoring players' progress and making critical adjustments to ensure readiness for the competitive season ahead.