Injuries are an unavoidable reality in the NFL, and this preseason, the league's 32 teams have collectively navigated a minefield of physical setbacks. Key players have fallen prey to serious injuries, drastically altering team dynamics and game strategies even before the season has officially begun.
A Season-Ending Blow for Moore
Moore, recently traded to the Atlanta Falcons, faced a devastating blow earlier this month. A harrowing knee injury has sidelined him for the entire season. The distressing scene saw Moore leaving the practice field in an air cast on his right leg, quickly transported to a local medical facility. The Falcons will be without Moore until his expected return in 2025.
Trice and Other Falcons Sidelined
The Falcons were hit again when Trice, their No. 74 overall pick, tore his ACL during his first preseason game. Like Moore, Trice is projected to make his comeback in 2025. This series of setbacks has undoubtedly posed a significant challenge to Atlanta's plans for the season.
Across the Board Setbacks
Injuries haven't spared other teams either. Evans and Williams both suffered severe injuries — a torn patellar tendon and an ACL tear, respectively — ruling them out for the entire regular season. Both players are expected back in 2025. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills' Milano tore his biceps and is likely off the field for the majority of the season with an optimistic return slated for December.
The string of injuries continues with Curtis Samuel, who is considered "week to week" due to turf toe. Projections suggest he'll be back by Week 2. Similarly, MVS suffered a neck sprain during a preseason victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers and should return by Week 3. Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury and Brooks’ torn ACL could keep them away until Week 4.
First-Round Pains and Other Setbacks
The Bengals’ first-round pick sustained a strained pectoral muscle during their initial preseason game, with a return expected by Week 2. McCarthy, another name on the injury list, suffered a torn meniscus and joins those expected to be back in 2025. Furthermore, Herbig’s torn rotator cuff will keep him sidelined until December.
Chubb's Continuum of Pain
Chubb’s ongoing battle with knee injuries, resulting in multiple surgeries, means his return is not anticipated until at least Week 5. Remaining on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list since Week 17, there is some hope for a return by Week 8.
Tennessee's Hopefuls and Higbee's Wait
Tennessee's No. 1 wide receiver and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, both grappling with knee injuries, are aiming for Week 1 returns. Higbee, facing ACL and MCL injuries, is set to rejoin his team only by Week 15.
Minor Injuries and Optimistic Returns
Other injuries, though momentarily disruptive, present a brighter picture. The Lions’ second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury, which "is not expected to be a serious issue." Phillips, who tore his Achilles, was activated off the PUP list and should be back by Week 1. Warren, sidelined due to a hamstring injury against the Bills, is another player anticipated to make a Week 1 return.
Dave Canales, addressing Brooks' condition, shared optimism by stating, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
The preseason injury plague has undoubtedly disrupted evaluations and preparations across the board. Coaches and staff are now tasked with adapting to these changes, potentially altering game plans and player strategies as they brace for a challenging season ahead.