The third week of NFL action proved to be tumultuous as multiple teams grappled with a slew of injuries. The week saw several key players sidelined, impacting their respective teams significantly.
Quarterbacks in Crisis
The Los Angeles Chargers faced a major concern when star quarterback Justin Herbert, who was initially listed as questionable due to an ankle injury, aggravated the issue in the third quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Herbert underwent X-rays, which fortunately came back negative. However, it remains uncertain how quickly he can return to full strength. An insider mentioned, "Herbert will be carefully monitored throughout the week." In the interim, Taylor Heinicke stepped in under center as the game progressed.
Meanwhile, Green Bay Packers’ Jordan Love continues to recover from a sprained MCL that has kept him out of the past two games. Love is set to be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday, with head coach Matt LaFleur stating, "Love will at a minimum be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday." The Packers are taking a cautious approach, evaluating his progress on a day-by-day basis.
Elsewhere, Sam Darnold of the Minnesota Vikings briefly exited the team’s win over the Houston Texans with a knee injury. An MRI revealed a bone bruise but no structural damage, offering some relief to the Vikings.
Concussions and Contusions
The Philadelphia Eagles suffered a double blow with wide receiver DeVonta Smith and offensive tackle Lane Johnson both ruled out due to concussions. Britain Covey’s shoulder injury was diagnosed as a broken bone that will keep him sidelined for multiple weeks, thereby affecting the team's depth and impact on the field.
The New York Jets' offensive situation also took a hit as Mekhi Becton did not finish the first half due to an undisclosed injury. Rashawn Slater of the Los Angeles Chargers strained his pectoral muscle, and Cleveland Browns’ Jedrick Wills Jr. went down in the second half, adding to the team's injury woes.
Season-Ending and Severe Injuries
Marcus Davenport's significant elbow injury has prematurely cut short his season, a devastating blow for the team. The Indianapolis Colts will also miss Kwity Paye, who will be out for an unspecified duration due to a quad injury. In a similar setback, Marcus Epps tore his ACL during the loss to Carolina and is expected to be ready for play only by 2025.
Ongoing Evaluations
Other players are being cautiously managed for their injuries. Erik McCoy’s groin injury is being evaluated, while Titans head coach Brian Callahan has remarked on Jeffery Simmons' elbow injury being monitored day-to-day. Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged that Myles Garrett’s status would be similarly evaluated daily, with Garrett dealing with lower-leg ailments linked to foot issues.
Defensive Woes
Alex Highsmith of the Steelers couldn't return due to a groin injury, leading to Nick Herbig stepping in. Adoree' Jackson of the Giants did not appear on the field in the second half against Cleveland, and Cory Trice Jr.'s hamstring injury kept him out of the Chargers matchup.
Terell Smith sustained a hip injury and was initially thought to be doubtful for return but was later confirmed as unable to come back. Chidobe Awuzie’s groin issue may soon place him on injured reserve, which would be a substantial blow to his team.
In addition, Leonard Williams left the game with a rib injury and was ruled out, while Byron Murphy was sidelined with a hamstring injury against the Dolphins.
Impact and Adjustments
This week’s injuries emphasize the ongoing need for strategic adjustments by coaching staff. As head coach Shane Steichen confirmed, the weekly physical toll on players requires meticulous planning and adept rotation of the roster to maintain competitive edge.
Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL season, and how teams adapt to these setbacks often defines their success. As the league moves forward, the health updates and rehabilitations of these key players will be crucial in shaping the upcoming matchups.