Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, and this preseason has been no exception. All 32 teams have faced significant setbacks as various key players have sustained serious injuries, impacting their availability for the upcoming season.
Season-Ending Injuries
Some of the toughest blows have been season-ending injuries. Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason, has suffered a knee injury that will sideline him until 2025. The unfortunate incident saw Moore exit the practice field with an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility, cementing a grim outlook for the season ahead.
Trice, selected 74th overall by the Falcons, tore his ACL during his first preseason game. His prognosis is similarly bleak, with a return not expected until 2025. Evans will also miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon and is anticipated to return in 2025. Additionally, Williams, who tore his ACL during training camp, joins the list of those expected to make their comebacks in 2025.
Mid-Season Returns
For some players, the timeline for a return is slightly more optimistic. Milano’s torn biceps are projected to keep him off the field for the majority of the season, although an optimistic return is scheduled for December.
Similarly, Herbig’s torn rotator cuff has ruled him out until December, and his recovery will be closely watched as the season progresses.
Early Season Setbacks
Several players are aiming for earlier returns. Curtis Samuel, dealing with turf toe, is considered "week to week" and is expected to be back by Week 2. Likewise, MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to return by Week 3.
Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL are probably going to keep them off the field until Week 4. Dave Canales is optimistic about Brooks' return, noting that “Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return.”
Further adding to the mix, the Bengals' first-round pick sustained a strained pectoral muscle in their first preseason game and is expected to be ready by Week 2.
Persistent Issues from Last Season
Chubb’s knee injury from last season dealt him multiple surgeries, with his return not anticipated before Week 5. Having been on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list since Week 17, Chubb’s potential return might not happen until Week 8.
Wideouts for Tennessee, including the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, are aiming for a Week 1 return after suffering knee injuries in early August. Joining them is Higbee, who will rejoin in Week 15 due to ACL and MCL injuries.
Less Severe Injuries
Not all the injuries have been catastrophic. For instance, the Lions' second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury this month, but it is "not expected to be a serious issue." Similarly, Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off PUP last week and is expected to be back by Week 1.
Warren, sidelined in a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, is also expected back by Week 1, giving his team a boost.
As preseason injuries have disrupted evaluations and preparations, coaches and staff are adapting to these new circumstances. The overarching narrative remains clear: teams must navigate a landscape where player health can change the course of a season in the blink of an eye.