Injuries have always been an unavoidable aspect of the NFL, and this preseason has been particularly harsh on many teams across the league. With serious injuries impacting key players, the landscape for the upcoming season is already being reshaped.
This offseason, one of the most notable setbacks involved Moore, who was traded to Atlanta and then suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. His exit from the practice field, marked by an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility, was a grim reminder of the physical toll of the sport. Moore is expected to return in 2025.
Similarly, Trice, the Falcons' No. 74 overall pick, tore his ACL in his first preseason game. This unfortunate event has resulted in Trice also being sidelined until 2025. Meanwhile, Evans will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, with his return anticipated for 2025 as well. Williams, who suffered an ACL tear during training camp, shares the same expected return timeline.
Milano, who suffered a torn biceps, will be off the field for the majority of the season. Despite this, there is cautious optimism that he could return by December. On the other hand, Curtis Samuel is considered "week to week" with turf toe and is expected to be back by Week 2. MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a preseason victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to return by Week 3.
Among other injuries, Dane Jackson's significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL will likely keep them sidelined until Week 4. The Bengals' first-round pick, who sustained a strained pectoral muscle in their first preseason game, is expected to be ready by Week 2. McCarthy, enduring a torn meniscus, is another player projected to return in 2025.
Injury troubles extend to Herbig, whose torn rotator cuff has ruled him out until December. Meanwhile, Chubb's knee injury from last season has resulted in multiple surgeries, delaying his return until potentially Week 5. Currently, Chubb remains on PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) since Week 17, with a hopeful return by Week 8.
Tennessee's No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are both aiming for returns by Week 1 following knee injuries sustained in early August. Higbee, however, will not rejoin the team until Week 15 due to ACL and MCL injuries. For the Lions, their second-year running back’s hamstring injury, sustained this month, is "not expected to be a serious issue."
On a more positive note, Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was recently activated off PUP and is expected back by Week 1. Warren, sidelined during a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, is also expected back by Week 1.
Further emphasizing the unpredictable nature of injuries, Dave Canales expressed optimism about Brooks' potential return, stating, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
Coaches and staff across the league are now faced with the challenging task of adapting to these disruptions. Preseason injuries have significantly impacted evaluations and preparations, compelling all 32 teams to re-strategize their game plans as the clock ticks closer to the regular season.
The ripple effect of these injuries goes beyond the individual players, influencing team dynamics, strategy, and ultimately, the season's outcome. As teams brace themselves for the start of the regular season, the resilience and adaptability of coaching staff and players alike will be put to the test.
While the return timelines vary, from hopeful Week 1 returns to extended absences until 2025, each injury story underscores the importance of depth in the roster and the ever-present uncertainty in professional football. The road to recovery will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, eager to see how these setbacks shape the NFL season ahead.