Injuries continue to be an unfortunate reality in the NFL, with preseason proving particularly brutal for several of the league's 32 teams. This year has seen a notable number of key players sidelined, significantly impacting team rosters and their strategies heading into the new season.
Falcons' Injury Woes
For the Atlanta Falcons, the offseason has been marred by injuries to crucial players. Moore, a significant trade acquisition, suffered a devastating knee injury earlier this month. His exit from the practice field, marked by an air cast on his right leg and immediate transportation to a local medical facility, signaled the severity of the incident. As a result, Moore won't be returning to the field until 2025.
Adding to the Falcons' troubles, their No. 74 overall pick, Trice, tore his ACL in his first preseason game. Much like Moore, Trice is also expected to be sidelined until 2025. Furthermore, Evans, another key player, will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon and is similarly projected to make his return in 2025.
Significant Setbacks Across the League
The injury epidemic extends beyond Atlanta. Williams sustained an ACL tear during training camp, with his return likewise anticipated in 2025. Meanwhile, Milano’s torn biceps will see him out of action for the majority of the season, with a hopeful return slated for December.
Other players are facing shorter recovery periods. Curtis Samuel, dealing with turf toe, is considered "week to week" and is expected to be back by Week 2. MVS, who suffered a neck sprain during a preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to return by Week 3. Dane Jackson, burdened with a significant hamstring injury, and Brooks, who tore his ACL, are both expected to be sidelined until Week 4.
The Bengals’ first-round pick suffered a strained pectoral muscle in their preseason opener, with an optimistic return by Week 2. McCarthy, on the other hand, is expected to be out until 2025 due to a torn meniscus.
Optimistic Returns
Herbig, having endured a torn rotator cuff, is not expected back until December. Meanwhile, Chubb, dealing with the aftermath of last season's knee injury and subsequent surgeries, is unlikely to make his return before Week 5. Remaining on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list since Week 17, Chubb's potential return is projected around Week 8.
Despite these setbacks, there are some optimistic recovery timelines. Tennessee's No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are both aiming for Week 1 returns after knee injuries in early August. Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off PUP last week and is also expected back by Week 1. Similarly, Warren, sidelined by a hamstring injury during a preseason game against the Bills, is anticipated to be back in action by Week 1.
Looking Situation Realistically
The Lions' second-year running back who sustained a hamstring injury this month, fortunately, does not expect a long-term absence. Coach Dave Canales remains hopeful about Brooks' recovery, suggesting that a return by Week 3 or Week 4 would be “great.”
Preseason injuries have disrupted team evaluations and preparations, thrusting coaches and staff into challenging adjustments. The ripple effects of these injuries will undoubtedly shape the early part of the NFL season, forcing teams to adapt quickly and capitalize on depth across their rosters. As players work through their recoveries, teams and fans alike hold their breath, hoping for swift and successful returns to the gridiron.