As NFL training camps intensify, several teams are already contending with significant injuries to key players, a blow that could shape the early part of the regular season.
Among the hardest-hit are the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. On Thursday, rookie pass rusher YaYa Diaby was carted off the practice field with a high-ankle sprain. Diaby, who was expected to be a vital component of Tampa Bay's defensive line, now faces an extended recovery period. In another setback for the Buccaneers, guard Sua Opeta suffered a torn ACL and will miss the entire season. Opeta had signed a one-year deal and was competing for the starting left guard spot alongside Ben Bredeson. Following Opeta's injury, Bredeson has taken over reps with the starters.
The Buccaneers were already dealing with the absence of key players like Matt Feiler and Aaron Stinnie from last season, creating significant gaps in their offensive line. These new injuries only exacerbate their challenges as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, Kansas City Chiefs' training camp is seeing a mix of additions and setbacks. The team added several wide receivers, including first-round pick Xavier Worthy. However, veteran pass rusher Nick Bolton exited practice early with an apparent arm injury. Bolton had previously missed time last season due to wrist surgery, raising concerns about his current condition.
The Dallas Cowboys also took a hit when Sam Williams suffered a torn ACL during Sunday's practice. Williams, who was anticipated to support the strong pass-rushing duo of Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence, will be placed on injured reserve. This places additional pressure on Parsons and Lawrence to compensate for the loss.
Samson Ebukam of the San Francisco 49ers is another player whose season has ended prematurely. The defensive end tore his Achilles tendon and will sit out the entire season. This injury forces the 49ers to look for alternative options to bolster their defensive line.
Rashod Bateman of the Baltimore Ravens left Monday's practice after sustaining a hit to the rib/stomach area. While early reports suggest that Sam Hubbard's knee injury is not considered serious, Hubbard was still carted off the practice field on Sunday. Coach John Harbaugh described Bateman's issue as merely soreness, but the team remains cautious about his return.
The Los Angeles Rams are also exercising caution with Darious Williams, who is sidelined with a hamstring strain. Head coach Sean McVay assured that the team will manage Williams' recovery cautiously and will take it "a week at a time."
Kendre Miller of the New Orleans Saints left the first camp practice with a hamstring injury. Miller appeared in just eight games last year, and head coach Dennis Allen hasn’t minced words about the situation, suggesting Miller needs to "figure out how to stay healthy."
In the AFC East, Ty Johnson is sitting out Tuesday's practice due to a hamstring injury. Johnson has been in a rotation for the No. 2 running back position alongside rookie Ray Davis. Fortunately for the Bills, starter James Cook recently returned to practice after a brief personal leave.
Nate Davis of the Chicago Bears has missed several sessions with an undisclosed muscle strain. This absence may affect the Bears' plans for their offensive line as they continue through camp.
Additional injuries around the league include Justin Watson, who is dealing with a foot injury. Watson, who had a career-high 460 receiving yards in 2023, now provides an opportunity for third-year player Skyy Moore to step up in his absence.
The early wave of injuries across various teams is a stark reminder of the physical toll of the NFL even before the regular season starts. As teams navigate these setbacks, the focus remains on managing recoveries and preventing further injuries in order to be as prepared as possible for week one.