As NFL training camps commence, several teams are confronting significant setbacks due to injuries to key players. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in particular, have been severely affected with multiple players sidelined early on.
Buccaneers' Early Struggles
On Thursday, the Buccaneers' rookie pass rusher YaYa Diaby was carted off the practice field with a high-ankle sprain. Diaby is anticipated to be a crucial element in Tampa Bay's defensive front upon his return. However, his absence is a notable blow given the high expectations surrounding him.
Adding to the Buccaneers' woes, guard Sua Opeta suffered a torn ACL, sidelining him for the entirety of the season. Opeta, who signed a one-year deal, was in contention for the starting left guard position alongside Ben Bredeson. With Opeta out, Bredeson has now taken over reps with the starters. The offensive line was already grappling with the absence of key players from last season like Matt Feiler and Aaron Stinnie, creating a substantial void that needs addressing.
Setbacks in Kansas City
In the Kansas City Chiefs’ camp, injury setbacks have not spared the reigning Super Bowl champions. Veteran pass rusher Nick Bolton exited practice early with an apparent arm injury. Bolton previously missed time last season due to wrist surgery, raising concerns about his durability moving forward. Meanwhile, the Chiefs have added several wide receivers, including first-round pick Xavier Worthy, to shore up their offensive arsenal.
Cowboys and 49ers Face Defensive Injuries
The Dallas Cowboys are also dealing with a significant injury, as Sam Williams tore his ACL during Sunday’s practice. Williams was expected to bolster the Cowboys’ formidable pass-rushing duo of Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence. His season-ending injury leaves a considerable gap in the Cowboys’ defensive line.
Similarly, the San Francisco 49ers are facing their own defensive hurdles. Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon and will miss the entire season, weakening San Francisco's defensive front. This injury is a substantial setback for a team looking to maintain their defensive dominance.
Ravens Navigate Injury Concerns
Rashod Bateman of the Baltimore Ravens left Monday’s practice after a hit to the rib/stomach area. Coach John Harbaugh downplayed the severity, describing it as "merely soreness." Despite this reassurance, Bateman’s condition will be monitored closely to ensure there are no further implications.
Minor and Major Concerns Across the League
Elsewhere in the league, the Cincinnati Bengals received a slight scare when Sam Hubbard was carted off the practice field with a knee injury. Early reports are optimistic, suggesting the injury is not severe.
The Los Angeles Rams’ Darious Williams is dealing with a hamstring strain. Head coach Sean McVay emphasized a cautious approach, stating the team would manage his recovery "a week at a time."
Rookie Kendre Miller left the New Orleans Saints' first camp practice due to a hamstring injury. Miller’s health has been a recurring issue, appearing in only eight games last year. Head coach Dennis Allen was candid about the situation, suggesting Miller needs to "figure out how to stay healthy."
In Chicago, Nate Davis has missed several practice sessions with an undisclosed muscle strain. Meanwhile, Justin Watson of the Chiefs is dealing with a foot injury. Watson, who had a career-high 460 receiving yards in 2023, will see his absence create more opportunities for third-year player Skyy Moore to step up.
The Buffalo Bills are also rotating their running backs as Ty Johnson sits out practice due to a hamstring injury. Johnson has been vying for the No. 2 spot alongside rookie Ray Davis. Starter James Cook has recently returned to practice after a brief personal leave, providing some stability in the rotation.
As training camp injuries continue to shake up rosters, teams will need to adapt and strategize to fill the gaps left by these crucial players. It's a challenging start, but the resilience of these teams will be tested as they prepare for the upcoming season.