Injuries have cast a long shadow over the 2024 NFL season, with many teams struggling to maintain their form just weeks into the campaign. The landscape is increasingly dictated by the health and availability of key players, leading to significant tactical and personnel adjustments across the league.
Challenges for the Rams and Dolphins
For the Los Angeles Rams, head coach Sean McVay faces a particularly uphill battle as he rallies a squad hit hard by injuries. The Miami Dolphins are also in a tough spot, having placed their standout quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, on injured reserve following another head injury in a matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
Patriots Dealing with a Host of Injuries
The New England Patriots are grappling with several injuries. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) have all been confirmed out. Additionally, key players like center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are listed as questionable. The Patriots' roster uncertainties are mounting, raising questions about their ability to compete effectively in the coming weeks.
Jets and Steelers Navigating Their Own Struggles
The New York Jets are missing linebacker Jermaine Johnson II (Achilles), while C.J. Mosley’s status remains uncertain due to a toe injury. The Pittsburgh Steelers face the daunting prospect of playing without star quarterback Russell Wilson, who is expected to miss their upcoming game against the Chargers. Rookie Roman Wilson is also limited by an ankle issue, further complicating the Steelers' situation.
"His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play," sources from the Jets camp shared, highlighting the precarious health of their team members.
Injury Woes Across the League
In New York, the Giants' cornerback Nick McCloud (knee) missed practice, as did Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) who were limited participants. The Cleveland Browns, not immune to the injury epidemic, saw tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) sidelined during Wednesday's practice. Edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee) were limited in their participation.
"Kevin Stefanski said it's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday,” exacerbating concerns for the Browns’ offense.
Key Players' Conditions Raising Concerns
The Green Bay Packers’ quarterback Jordan Love made a return to practice, which provided a glimmer of hope for the team. However, the Packers still face multiple absences and limited participation from players like running back Josh Jacobs (back) and tight end Tucker Kraft. Notably, offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), along with wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf) and cornerback Carrington Valentine (ankle), missed practice.
Over in Tennessee, the situation is slightly better, with running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) being the sole player unable to practice for the Titans.
Meanwhile, the Bears are feeling the absence of key contributors like wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh). "Matt Eberflus said there is no timetable regarding the return of Allen," adding to the uncertainty hanging over the Bears’ season.
Additional Teams Feeling the Pressure
The Indianapolis Colts' injury list includes kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip). The Houston Texans reported seven players missing practice on Wednesday, including running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot).
The Minnesota Vikings are not unscathed, with Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip) both limited in practice. The New Orleans Saints reported linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) did not practice. “Dennis Allen has indicated that the plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully,” which underscores the cautious approach teams are taking with their critical players.
The Los Angeles Chargers are contending with the unexpected absence of their quarterback Justin Herbert, who missed practice due to an ankle issue. Broncos' linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) are similarly affected.
Lions Assessing Their Defensive Lineup
Four out of five Detroit Lions who didn’t practice were defensive players, a troubling sign for their defense. Notably, linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring) didn’t practice, alongside offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee). On a brighter note, wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) participated fully in practice, providing a much-needed boost to the Lions’ offensive hopes.
As the season progresses, the impact of these injuries will ripple through the league, affecting strategies, performance, and ultimately, playoff aspirations. Teams will be tested not only by their opponents but also by their ability to adapt and overcome the relentless injury bug that has taken hold of the NFL in 2024.