As the NFL season approaches, teams across the league are finely tuning their rosters and dealing with a slew of injuries that could impact their Week 1 performances. Notable updates from team practices reflect both critical setbacks and hopeful returns.
Bengals Optimistic Despite Injuries
The Cincinnati Bengals received mixed news this week. Star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase was limited in practice, raising concerns ahead of their opening game. However, in a more positive development for the team, quarterback Joe Burrow was a full participant in practice, indicating he's ready to lead the offense.
Cardinals and Green Bay Face Hurdles
Over in Arizona, wide receiver Marquise Brown is confirmed to be out due to a shoulder injury. For the Green Bay Packers, a spate of injuries could pose significant challenges, with six players, including Romeo Doubs and Tucker Kraft, reporting limitations. While Doubs has been limited for two consecutive days, Kraft's limitation on Wednesday was a new development, suggesting an emerging concern.
Defensive Standouts Miss Time
The Buccaneers are also feeling the impact with Devin White ruled out due to an ankle injury. This absence paves the way for Nakobe Dean to make his fifth career start. Meanwhile, linebacker Willie Gay Jr., Pete Werner, and cornerback Marshon Lattimore were all limited in practice for the New Orleans Saints, which could affect their defensive strategies.
Steelers and Falcons Experience Setbacks
Multiple key players for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Atlanta Falcons are nursing injuries. Troy Fautanu, Roman Wilson, and Jaylen Warren of the Steelers were all limited in practice, while Kyle Pitts and Nate Landman faced similar limitations for the Falcons.
Additionally, wide receivers Xavier Weaver and Javon Solomon are out due to oblique injuries, which could hamper Atlanta’s air attack. Tight end Tip Reiman was limited with an ankle issue, adding another layer of concern.
Quarterbacks and Key Players Under Scrutiny
The quarterback situation for several teams also remains under scrutiny. Mitchell Trubisky of the Steelers was limited in practice due to a knee problem, while for the Seahawks, Jamal Adams did not practice because of a hip injury, adding to the Seahawks’ defensive woes.
Keenan Allen of the Bears seems to be in a better position. According to Bears GM Ryan Poles, “Allen’s injury would not impact his Week 1 status,” providing some relief for the team and fans alike. On the Colts front, wide receiver Josh Downs and kicker Matt Gay were absent from practice, but the team took a proactive step by re-signing Spencer Shrader to the practice squad.
Injury Woes Across the League
The Houston Texans, too, are grappling with their share of injuries. Safety M.J. Stewart didn’t practice due to a knee injury. In Carolina, the Panthers missed multiple players in practice, including Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble. Miles Sanders was limited due to a finger injury, and the Panthers made a roster move by signing rookie Messiah Swinson off the Packers' practice squad.
The Patriots are also not immune to injury issues. Both Jonathan Jones and Vederian Lowe were limited in practice, and guard Sidy Sow did not practice. In the Giants’ camp, Drew Lock, Micah McFadden, Dane Belton, and Gunner Olszewski were limited, suggesting potential challenges ahead.
Broncos and Browns Manage Setbacks
A promising development emerged for the Denver Broncos, as Bo Nix was announced as the team's first rookie captain since 1967, symbolizing his pivotal role and leadership. Conversely, the Cleveland Browns reported eight players limited in practice, and Jedrick Wills has been sidelined since undergoing surgery last December, adding to their long list of concerns.
Saints Coach Kevin O'Connell on Player Progress
Saints coach Kevin O'Connell provided insight into the status of his players, stating, “Jordan Addison moved around well and that they anticipate increasing his workload as the week progresses,” and added that “Jalen Nailor is a bit behind Addison but is progressing well.” These comments shed light on the Saints' hopeful outlook despite the setbacks.
Buccaneers Without a Kicker
The Buccaneers find themselves in a peculiar situation, with both Logan Hall and Chase McLaughlin not practicing. Adding to their woes, the team currently does not have a kicker on their practice squad, potentially complicating their special teams strategy for Week 1.
Lions Look to DJ Reader
Dan Campbell, head coach of the Detroit Lions, remains optimistic about DJ Reader's participation on Sunday despite Reader being limited in practice on Wednesday.
As the season opener draws near, these injury updates provide a snapshot of the challenges and possible advantages teams may face. While some players are expected to make timely recoveries, others might miss critical first games, influencing their teams' strategies and outcomes.