Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, and this preseason has been no exception. All 32 teams have faced significant setbacks as various key players have sustained serious injuries, impacting their availability for the upcoming season. The Atlanta Falcons, in particular, have been hit hard, with multiple players expected to miss substantial time.
Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason, suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. His exit from the practice field was dramatic, marked by an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility. Unfortunately, Moore isn't expected to return until 2025. Adding to Atlanta’s woes, their No. 74 overall pick, Trice, tore his ACL in his first preseason game. His recovery timeline is similarly set for 2025.
Another critical blow for the Falcons involves Evans, who will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon. His return is also anticipated in 2025. Williams, another victim of a torn ACL during training camp, won't be back in action until 2025 either. Meanwhile, Milano suffered a torn biceps, which will keep him off the field for the majority of the season, with a hopeful return scheduled for December.
Not every injury in the NFL preseason has resulted in a season-long absence. Curtis Samuel, for instance, is considered "week to week" with turf toe and is expected to be back by Week 2. MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to return by Week 3. The timeline for Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL extends slightly longer, likely keeping them off the field until Week 4.
Injury-Ridden Season Ahead
Several other teams have also seen their rosters weakened by such setbacks. The Bengals' first-round pick sustained a strained pectoral muscle in their first preseason game but should be ready to perform by Week 2. Injuries like McCarthy’s torn meniscus will delay his return until 2025, further adding to the complexity of preseason evaluations and roster decisions. Herbig’s torn rotator cuff similarly removes him from the field until December.
Chubb's knee injury from last season resulted in multiple surgeries, with his return not anticipated before Week 5. Remaining on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list since Week 17, Chubb aims to potentially return by Week 8. In Tennessee, the No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are aiming for returns by Week 1 after suffering knee injuries earlier in August.
One longer-term injury casualty is Higbee, who is expected to rejoin in Week 15 due to ACL and MCL injuries. On a more positive note for Detroit, the Lions' second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury this month but it is "not expected to be a serious issue." Being able to retain a talented player for the season opener can spell a difference in an already risky season.
Signs of Optimism Amid Setbacks
Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, offers a glimmer of hope for the coming weeks. Activated off the PUP list last week, he is expected back by Week 1. Similarly, Warren, who was sidelined in a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, is expected back by Week 1 as well.
Falcons' coach Dave Canales remains optimistic, especially when it comes to Brooks' return. He was quoted saying, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return." This positive outlook provides a needed morale boost for the team and fans alike as they prepare for a challenging season.
Preseason injuries have undoubtedly disrupted evaluations and preparations, forcing coaches and staff to adapt swiftly. As the regular season approaches, teams will continue to monitor their injured players, hoping for speedy recoveries and minimal further setbacks. The resilience and depth of these 53-man rosters will be put to the test, as the unforgiving nature of the NFL shows no signs of letting up.
