As the NFL training camps intensify, there's been a noticeable rise in injuries that are impacting key players across the league. This recent uptick in injuries is a critical development for teams as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Chargers Hit with Herbert's Injury
The Los Angeles Chargers are grappling with the temporary absence of their star quarterback, Justin Herbert, who has been sidelined with a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert, a cornerstone of the Chargers' offense, will be in a walking boot for the next two weeks.
Despite the setback, the team remains optimistic about Herbert's return, anticipating his readiness for the regular season. In the interim, backup quarterback Easton Stick will take over the helm, providing a crucial opportunity for him to demonstrate his capabilities.
Panthers Seek Quarterback Depth
The Carolina Panthers also face challenges with their quarterback lineup. Backup quarterback Andy Dalton is out for a few weeks due to a quad injury, leaving the team to scour the market for additional quarterback support. This development puts added pressure on the Panthers as they continue their pre-season preparations.
Additionally, the Panthers are keenly monitoring the recovery of their rookie running back, Jonathon Brooks, who is on the mend from an ACL tear sustained last November. According to head coach Dave Canales, "He expects rookie running back Jonathon Brooks to be ready around Week 3 or Week 4 of this season."
Injuries Across the League
Other teams are also feeling the impact of injuries. The reigning Offensive Player of the Year suffered a calf injury in early August. As head coach Kyle Shanahan stated, "The reigning Offensive Player of the Year suffered a calf injury in early August and will likely miss a few weeks of practice." This absence could significantly affect the team's preparations and strategy going into the regular season.
The Rams are dealing with their own set of challenges as offensive lineman Jonah Jackson is listed as "week to week" with a shoulder injury, and Cam Robinson exited practice due to a similar issue. Additionally, rookies like Anton Harrison and players such as Demario Davis have entered the concussion protocol or sustained hamstring injuries, respectively.
Sam Williams, a promising talent, suffered a season-ending ACL tear, while Samson Ebukam is out with a torn Achilles tendon. The litany of injuries also includes YaYa Diaby with a high-ankle sprain and John Cominsky, who is on injured reserve due to a torn MCL.
Devastating Non-Contact Injuries
Non-contact injuries have also made headlines. Receiver and returner Moore was carted off the field following a non-contact injury and was later diagnosed with a season-ending knee injury. Similarly, Jermaine Burton is out with a minor ankle injury, and Rashod Bateman is dealing with soreness from a rib/stomach hit.
The scene at training camps often turned dire with players like Sam Hubbard, who experienced a knee injury and had to exit practice on a cart, and Darious Williams, who is dealing with a hamstring strain. Rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette remains under observation after not finishing practice due to an unspecified injury.
High Expectations and Setbacks
Saints' second-year receiver, Puka Nacua, who won the Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023, is now considered week-to-week with a knee injury suffered during a recent practice. As ESPN noted, "Nacua enters Year 2 with high expectations after winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023. He suffered a knee injury at Saturday's practice, however, and is now considered week-to-week."
Adding to the complexity, some players entered training camps on reserves lists like physically unable to perform (PUP). This influx of injuries is a stark reminder of the inherent physical toll of the sport, influencing team strategies and the dynamics of the upcoming season.
As teams navigate these turbulent pre-season waters, staying healthy and mitigating injuries will be pivotal. The early signs from training camps underscore the fragile nature of NFL rosters and the importance of depth and resilience as the regular season approaches.