The 2024 NFL season has been fraught with injuries, leaving numerous teams struggling to find their footing just weeks into the campaign. The constant setbacks have forced coaches and players to adapt quickly, with varying degrees of success.
Rams Face Uphill Battle
In Los Angeles, Rams head coach Sean McVay is tasked with rallying a team hit hard by injuries. Despite the adversity, McVay remains determined to keep his squad competitive amidst these challenges.
Dolphins Lose Tagovailoa
Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins are facing a significant setback with their star quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, placed on injured reserve following another head injury sustained against the Buffalo Bills. The loss of Tagovailoa is a considerable blow to the team's playoff aspirations.
Patriots' Injury Woes
In New England, the Patriots are grappling with their own injury concerns. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) are confirmed out, while center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are listed as questionable.
Jets in Jeopardy
The New York Jets are also in a precarious position with linebacker Jermaine Johnson II ruled out due to an Achilles injury, and linebacker C.J. Mosley remains questionable with a toe issue. Speaking on the latter, "His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play," signaling the team's cautious approach.
Steelers Scramble
Similarly, the Pittsburgh Steelers are strategizing without their star quarterback Russell Wilson for a crucial matchup against the Chargers. Rookie Roman Wilson is also limited due to an ankle injury, compounding the Steelers' problems.
Giants' Injury List Grows
The Giants had cornerback Nick McCloud (knee) as the sole absentee in practice on Wednesday. However, key players like Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) were limited participants, raising concerns about their availability moving forward.
Browns' Practice Pains
On the Cleveland Browns' front, tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) didn't practice on Wednesday. Limited participants included edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee). Coach Kevin Stefanski addressed Njoku’s status, stating, "Kevin Stefanski said it's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday," effectively setting expectations for the upcoming game.
Packers Push Through
The Green Bay Packers, stricken with their own list of injuries, saw a glimmer of hope as quarterback Jordan Love returned to practice on Wednesday. Nonetheless, players like running back Josh Jacobs (back), tight end Tucker Kraft, and multiple offensive and defensive linemen were limited in practice. Additionally, notable absences included offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute), Jordan Morgan (shoulder), wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf), and cornerback Carrington Valentine (ankle).
Titans and Bears Impacted
The Tennessee Titans' practice saw the absence of running back Tyjae Spears (ankle). Similarly, the Bears were devoid of key figures like wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh). Bears head coach Matt Eberflus commented on Allen's return, mentioning, "Matt Eberflus said there is no timetable regarding the return of Allen," leaving the timeline uncertain.
Colts and Texans Tackle Setbacks
For the Indianapolis Colts, kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) headlined their injury report. Meanwhile, seven Houston Texans players missed practice Wednesday, most notably running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot).
Vikings and Saints Manage Injuries
The Minnesota Vikings saw limited practice from Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip). On the other hand, the New Orleans Saints had linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) missing from practice. Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) was notably absent during the team’s recent blowout win over the Cowboys. New Orleans head coach Dennis Allen explained the strategic management of Hill’s injury, saying, "Dennis Allen has indicated that the plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully."
Chargers, Broncos, and Lions Struggle
Los Angeles Chargers’ quarterback Justin Herbert missed practice due to an ankle issue, adding to the team's growing injury list. For the Broncos, linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) are sidelined with injuries.
The Detroit Lions also couldn’t escape the injury bug, with four out of five players missing practice on the defensive side, including linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring). Offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee) did not practice either, while wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) participated fully in the session.
As the 2024 NFL season progresses, teams are navigating the relentless waves of injuries, testing their depth and resilience. The collective efforts of coaches, medical staff, and players will shape how effectively each team can endure and adapt in the weeks ahead.