Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, a stark reality that every team must grapple with as they navigate the rigors of the preseason and beyond. This year has been no exception, with all 32 teams facing significant setbacks due to injuries to key players, which will undoubtedly impact their strategies and performance in the upcoming season.
One of the most notable casualties has been Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason. Moore’s promising start with the Falcons was abruptly halted when he suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. His dramatic exit from the practice field, marked by an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility, was a somber reminder of the physical toll football can take. Moore is now expected to return in 2025, a timeline that reflects the severity of his injury.
Trice, the Falcons' No. 74 overall pick, also saw his season cut short when he tore his ACL in his first preseason game. Like Moore, Trice is anticipated to make his comeback in 2025. The loss of these two players is a significant blow to the Falcons’ depth and potential on both sides of the ball.
Season-Ending Setbacks
The Falcons are not alone in their misfortunes. Evans, who is sidelined by a torn patellar tendon, and Williams, another player out with an ACL injury, are both expected to return in 2025. Meanwhile, McCarthy joins the list of those facing long recovery periods with his torn meniscus.
The Bills’ Milano suffered a torn biceps, which will keep him off the field for the majority of the season, although an optimistic return is penciled in for December. Herbig, also out with a torn rotator cuff, shares a similar recovery trajectory with the hopes of returning by late December.
Shorter-Term Injuries
Not all injuries spell season-long absences. Curtis Samuel, for instance, is dealing 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. Additionally, Dane Jackson's significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL are likely to keep them off the field until Week 4, with Dave Canales noting, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
The Bengals’ first-round pick, sidelined by a strained pectoral muscle, is expected to be ready by Week 2. In a similar timeline, Tennessee’s No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are targeting returns by Week 1 after their knee injuries in early August.
Long Road to Recovery
Some players find themselves on a longer road to recovery. Chubb, who suffered a knee injury last season, has undergone multiple surgeries and isn’t anticipated to return before Week 5. Currently on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list since Week 17, Chubb’s return is optimistically projected by Week 8.
Higbee, who faced both ACL and MCL injuries, is slated for a Week 15 return, a testament to the extensive recovery required for such injuries. Meanwhile, Phillips, having suffered a torn Achilles, was recently activated off the PUP list and is expected back by Week 1, pointing to a successful recovery process.
Minor Injuries and Optimistic Returns
Not all injury news is dire. The Lions' second-year running back, who sustained a hamstring injury this month, does not face a serious issue and is expected to make a prompt return. Similarly, Warren is expected back by Week 1 after a minor hamstring injury.
Preseason injuries have certainly disrupted evaluations and preparations, forcing coaches and staff to adapt their strategies. The careful management of these injuries and the timing of player returns will be crucial as teams strive to maintain competitive edges in the forthcoming season.
Injuries may form an inescapable part of the NFL's reality, but the resilience of these athletes and the unwavering dedication of coaching and medical staff continue to drive the league forward. Their collective efforts ensure that even in the face of adversity, the spirit of competition and the quest for excellence remain undeterred.