Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, and this preseason has been no exception. Every one of the 32 teams has faced significant setbacks due to injuries to key players, affecting their availability for the upcoming season. Such challenges often force coaches and staff to rapidly adapt their strategies and assessment plans. This preseason has been particularly brutal, with several high-impact players sidelined, some for the entire season.
Severe Blow for Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons have been hit hard, with multiple players facing long-term injuries. Notably, Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason, suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. His exit from the practice field was marked by an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility. Moore's return is projected for 2025, leaving a significant gap in the Falcons’ roster.
The Falcons' No. 74 overall pick, Trice, also tore his ACL in his first preseason game, adding to the team’s woes. Trice's recovery timeline aligns with Moore's, anticipating a return in 2025. This succession of injuries has undoubtedly affected the Falcons' preseason evaluations and preparation.
League-Wide Injury Report
The injury report doesn't end with Atlanta. Evans, who tore his patellar tendon, will miss the entire regular season, with a return expected in 2025. Similarly, Williams, who tore his ACL during training camp, projects a 2025 comeback. The delay in their return will create substantial holes in their respective teams' depth charts.
Buffalo Bills' player Milano suffered a torn biceps and is expected to be out for the majority of the season, with a hopeful return set for December. Other players facing short-term injuries but expected to return relatively soon include Curtis Samuel, who is week-to-week with turf toe and expected back by Week 2, and MVS, who sustained a neck sprain but is likely to return by Week 3.
Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury and Brooks’ torn ACL will keep them off the field until Week 4. Additionally, Tennessee’s top wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are aiming to return by Week 1 after knee injuries sustained earlier in August. Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off PUP last week and is also expected back by Week 1.
Managing Midterm Absences
Multiple players are expected to deal with midterm absences, significantly disrupting team dynamics. The Bengals' first-round pick, who strained his pectoral muscle, is anticipated to be ready by Week 2. Herbig, sidelined with a torn rotator cuff, is expected to return in December. These injuries emphasize the importance of depth in NFL rosters, as backups will need to step up during critical games.
Dave Canales, reflecting on Brooks' situation, shared his optimism, remarking that "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return." Such midseason returns provide a bit of relief for teams aiming to maintain playoff aspirations. Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list due to his lingering knee issues from last season, with a potential return slated for Week 8.
Optimism Amid Precautions
Despite the laundry list of injuries, not all news is grim. The Lions' second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury recently; however, it is "not expected to be a serious issue." Warrens’s hamstring injury is also not expected to keep him out for long, with a return expected by Week 1.
The NFL, known for its physicality, sees injuries as a part of the game, testing the resilience and depth of each team. As coaches and medical staff work tirelessly to adapt strategies and manage player health, the early part of the season will be telling. Meanwhile, fans and analysts alike will keenly watch how these teams navigate the treacherous waters of an injury-laden preseason.