The 2024 NFL season has been marred by a slew of injuries, affecting teams just weeks into the campaign. The impact has been widespread, with several high-profile players sidelined and others managing ongoing concerns.
Los Angeles Rams Struggle
For the Los Angeles Rams, head coach Sean McVay is in the unenviable position of rallying a squad hampered by injuries. The Rams' efforts to maintain their competitive edge in a demanding season have been severely tested.
Miami Dolphins Lose Key Player
The Miami Dolphins have dealt with a significant blow, placing their standout quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, on injured reserve following another head injury sustained against the Buffalo Bills. This development puts additional pressure on the team's offense, which now must find a way forward without their star signal-caller.
Patriots' Injury Report
The New England Patriots' injury list reads like a who's who of essential players. The team will be without offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee). Additionally, center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are all questionable, adding further uncertainty to the Patriots' lineup.
Jets Face Defensive Watch
In New York, the Jets' defense is reeling with linebacker Jermaine Johnson II (Achilles) ruled out and linebacker C.J. Mosley remaining questionable with a toe injury. "His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play," sources close to the team reveal.
Steelers Miss Key Quarterback
The Pittsburgh Steelers are bracing for the absence of star quarterback Russell Wilson for their game against the Chargers. Compounding their woes, rookie Roman Wilson's participation is limited by an ankle injury, challenging the Steelers' depth and adaptability.
Giants and Browns Deal with Setbacks
For the Giants, key defensive players Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) were limited in practice, while cornerback Nick McCloud (knee) was absent. The Cleveland Browns are also battling injury issues; tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) did not practice on Wednesday. "Kevin Stefanski said it's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday," reflecting the cautious approach the team is taking.
Packers and Titans Injury Woes
Green Bay Packers' quarterback Jordan Love returned to practice, yet the team still faces several injury concerns. Limited practice participants included running back Josh Jacobs (back) and tight end Tucker Kraft. Missing from practice were offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf), and cornerback Carrington Valentine (ankle). The Tennessee Titans saw running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) as their sole player unable to practice.
Bears, Colts, and Texans Continue to Suffer
The Chicago Bears were without key figures like wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh). "Matt Eberflus said there is no timetable regarding the return of Allen," adding to the uncertainty facing the Bears. Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts noted kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) on their injury report. In Houston, the Texans had seven players not practice on Wednesday, notably running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot).
Vikings and Saints Manage Limitations
The Minnesota Vikings saw Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip) limited in practice. The New Orleans Saints had linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) missing from practice. "Dennis Allen has indicated that the plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully," a tactical decision to preserve Hill’s health.
Chargers and Broncos
The Los Angeles Chargers had quarterback Justin Herbert miss practice due to an ankle issue, impacting the team's offensive plans. The Denver Broncos' linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) are also grappling with injuries, adding more to the team's concerns.
Lions' Defensive Challenge
In Detroit, the Lions faced an uphill battle with four defensive players unable to practice, including linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring). Offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee) also did not practice. On a positive note, wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) was a full participant in practice, providing some respite for the team.
As the season progresses, teams will need to adapt and overcome these injury challenges to remain competitive. How effectively they manage these setbacks could well determine their success in the 2024 NFL season.