The 2024 NFL season is already being overshadowed by a spate of injuries that have dramatically reshaped team rosters and strategies within just the first few weeks. Challenges lie ahead for many franchises as they brace to navigate these obstacles with key players sidelined, questionable, or playing through pain.
Major Blows to Team Rosters
The Los Angeles Rams are grappling with significant setbacks, leaving head coach Sean McVay the task of rallying a battered squad. In a similar vein, the Miami Dolphins face a dire situation as they place their standout quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, on injured reserve due to another head injury sustained against the Buffalo Bills. The move not only shakes up the quarterback position but also sends ripples through the offensive strategy.
New England Patriots Hit Hard
The New England Patriots have a particularly long list of ailments. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) are all confirmed out. Additionally, center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are listed as questionable, painting a grim picture for the Patriots' immediate prospects.
New York Jets and Several Others Feel the Pinch
The New York Jets are also feeling the pressure, with linebacker Jermaine Johnson II (Achilles) ruled out. Linebacker C.J. Mosley, managing a toe injury, remains questionable. His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play, casting doubt on the defensive capabilities of the Jets in upcoming games.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves without star quarterback Russell Wilson for their contest against the Chargers. Rookie Roman Wilson is further limited by an ankle injury, forcing the Steelers to adjust their offensive game plan swiftly.
Giants and Browns' Injury Woes
The New York Giants’ cornerback Nick McCloud missed practice due to a knee injury. Giants' players Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) were limited participants in practice, adding to their injury concerns.
The Cleveland Browns are also facing a slew of injuries. Tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) did not practice, and head coach Kevin Stefanski said it's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday. Limited participants in practice included edge rusher Za’Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee). This list includes critical components to the Browns' on-field operations, both offensively and defensively.
Packers and Titans' Health Concerns
The Green Bay Packers' quarterback Jordan Love returned to practice on Wednesday, bringing some relief. However, running back Josh Jacobs (back) and tight end Tucker Kraft were limited in practice. The Packers are also managing several other injuries across their roster, including offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), and wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf).
The Tennessee Titans reported that running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) was the only player unable to practice, a relative silver lining in a week dominated by injury reports.
Widespread Impact Across the League
Elsewhere, the Chicago Bears were without key figures like wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh), with head coach Matt Eberflus stating there is no timetable regarding the return of Allen.
The Indianapolis Colts reported injuries to kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip), while seven Houston Texans players didn't practice, including running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot).
The Minnesota Vikings saw Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip) limited in practice, impacting their offensive repertoire. Similarly, in the New Orleans Saints' camp, linebacker D’Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) didn't practice. According to Dennis Allen, the plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully.
Chargers, Broncos, and Lions Navigate Injury Troubles
The Los Angeles Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert missed practice due to an ankle issue, while the Broncos are dealing with injuries to linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot).
In Detroit, the Lions' defense is particularly affected, with four out of five players who didn't practice being defensive stalwarts. This includes linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring). Offensive lineman Graham Glasgow also failed to practice, though wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) was a full participant, offering a glimmer of hope for their offensive capabilities.
The early weeks of the 2024 NFL season underscore how pivotal player health is to a team's success. As the weeks progress, the ability of teams to adapt to these challenges will be crucial in determining their path forward.