Injuries are an unfortunate aspect of life in the NFL, affecting all 32 teams during training camp and preseason. However, certain clubs have encountered more severe challenges. Several starters have already sustained injuries that will keep them out for the season, while others face uncertainty regarding their availability for Week 1.
Below, we will highlight some of the most significant injuries occurring across the NFL and provide our best estimates for when these players might return to action. While not every injured player will be mentioned here, particularly those classified as “day-to-day,” this list focuses on the most noteworthy injuries to monitor as we approach the start of the regular season.
Moore, who joined Atlanta through a trade this offseason, sustained a knee injury that has ended his season earlier this month. He departed the practice field wearing an air cast on his right leg and was taken to a nearby medical facility.
Expected return: 2025
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The Falcons’ No. 74 overall selection is set to miss his entire rookie year, as Trice sustained an ACL tear during his first preseason game. This is a significant setback for the two-time First Team All Pac-12 player, and it could have influenced the Falcons’ decision to trade for Matt Judon.
Expected return: 2025
Buffalo Bills
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Milano ranks among the top linebackers in the NFL; however, injuries have struck him hard recently. Last season, he suffered a leg fracture in Week 5, and now he is dealing with a torn biceps that is expected to sideline him for a significant portion of the year. There is a chance that Milano could miss the entirety of the 2024 season, although a return late in the season seems possible.
Expected return: December
The Bills faced significant injury challenges during the preseason, which has led Sean McDermott to decide against fielding his starters in the final preseason game. Free-agent acquisition Curtis Samuel is currently regarded as “week to week” due to a turf toe injury. With only 20 days remaining until Buffalo’s season opener, his availability remains uncertain.
Expected return: Week 2
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MVS sustained a neck sprain due to a hard hit during the Week 2 preseason victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Coach McDermott announced on Monday that he will be sidelined for several weeks.
Expected return: Week 3
The Panthers were clearly aware of Brooks’ torn
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After being selected, ACL issues will sideline him for several regular-season matches. This month, head coach Dave Canales stated that it would be “great” if Brooks could return by Week 3 or Week 4.
Anticipated return: Week 4
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Coach Canales mentioned that free-agent signing Dane Jackson has sustained a “significant” hamstring injury, potentially sidelining him for as long as six weeks, according to ESPN. This situation is particularly concerning given Carolina’s lack of depth at cornerback.
Expected return: Week 4
Cincinnati Bengals
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The Bengals’ first-round draft selection encountered a strained pectoral muscle during Cincinnati’s initial preseason game and is expected to be sidelined for “several weeks.” In his only performance, Mims participated in 16 snaps at right tackle. Remarkably, he did not allow any pressure during the 10 pass-blocking snaps, as reported by Pro Football Focus.
Expected return: Week 2
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Evans is expected to be sidelined for the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon, which he sustained during a joint practice with the Chicago Bears, as reported by Bleacher Report. The injury occurred while he was participating in a kickoff return, and he was subsequently carted off the field with an air cast on his knee.
Expected return: 2025
Last season, Chubb endured a severe knee injury that necessitated two surgeries to fix his medial capsule, meniscus, MCL, and ACL. Although he has made remarkable progress in his recovery and is projected to return at some point in 2024, the exact timing remains uncertain.
Projected return: Week 5
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Last month, Williams suffered a torn ACL during training camp, which will sideline him for the entire 2024 season. According to CBS Sports’ lead NFL insider Jonathan Jones, he sustained the injury while participating in special teams drills when he went down. Although Williams has yet to start an NFL game, he has accumulated 8.5 sacks over the course of two seasons.
Expected return: 2025
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The adaptable second-year running back experienced a hamstring injury during practice this month. However, Dan Campbell has publicly stated that
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It is not anticipated to be a significant concern.
Projected return: Week 1
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Detroit’s star offensive tackle exited practice early on Wednesday after sustaining a foot injury. He received treatment from trainers on the field before gingerly making his way to a bench on the sidelines, and subsequently went to the locker room. There have been no further updates regarding Sewell’s condition.
Expected return: TBD
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Earlier this month, Downs reportedly sustained a high ankle sprain, which was somewhat reassuring since it was initially feared that he had incurred a more severe injury. However, high ankle sprains can be quite complicated.
Expected return: Week 2
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During a training camp session, Ebukam suffered a torn Achilles, resulting in him missing the entire 2024 season. He achieved a career-best performance in 2023, tallying 9.5 sacks, 57 combined tackles, 17 quarterback hits, and three forced fumbles.
Expected return: 2025
Marquise Brown is projected to be sidelined for 4 to 6 weeks due to a sternoclavicular injury he sustained during Week 1 of the preseason, which resulted in a short hospitalization. Following the game, Andy Reid informed reporters that Brown had experienced a dislocation of the sternoclavicular joint, an area where the clavicle connects to the sternum. While a precise recovery timeline for Hollywood remains uncertain, Bleacher Report indicates that he is expected to be out for four to six weeks.
Expected return: Week 2
Herbert was diagnosed with a plantar fascia injury in his right foot, necessitating a walking boot for two weeks. Nevertheless, he is expected to be prepared for the beginning of the regular season and was observed back on the practice field on Monday.
Expected return: Week 1
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The reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year sustained a right knee injury during practice earlier this month. However, head coach Sean McVay has indicated that he is anticipated to be ready for the season opener.
Expected return: Week 1
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Higbee will begin the season on the PUP list as he recovers from a torn ACL and MCL sustained during the playoff defeat against the Lions. It would be wise for the Rams to take a careful approach in managing his rehabilitation.
Expected return: Week 15
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Following a torn Achilles injury sustained last Black Friday, Phillips was activated off the Physically Unable to Perform list just last week. Boldly, we predict that he will participate in the season opener. During eight games played in 2023, Phillips accumulated 43 combined tackles, 6.5 sacks, and achieved his first career interception.
Expected return: Week 1
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Last season, Chubb had an impressive performance with 11 sacks, a career-high of 73 combined tackles, and led the league with six forced fumbles over 16 games for Miami. Unfortunately, he sustained an ACL tear during Week 17. Unlike Phillips, Chubb is currently on the PUP list.
Expected return: Week 8
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The No. 10 overall draft pick showcased his skills with two impressive touchdown passes during his preseason debut; however, he subsequently reported experiencing knee soreness. Medical evaluations have revealed that McCarthy has suffered a meniscus tear, which is expected to sideline him for his entire rookie season. The Vikings are adopting a cautious approach concerning their top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, emphasizing the importance of his long-term health.
Expected return: 2025
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Last year, during Week 16, Hockenson sustained a significant knee injury, resulting in tears to both his ACL and MCL. He was required to wait five weeks for swelling to subside before undergoing surgery in late January, which has delayed his return. In May, Hockenson mentioned that they hadn’t established a timeline for his comeback.
Expected return: Week 7
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During the Vikings’ inaugural training camp session of the year, they faced a significant setback as Blackmon suffered an ACL tear. Last season, in his rookie year, Blackmon participated in 15 games, starting three of them, and accumulated a total of 41 combined tackles, eight passes defensed, and one interception.
Expected return: 2025
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During the preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers, the Saints’ first-round draft pick exited early due to a knee injury. However, head coach Dennis Allen indicated that the injury does not seem to be significant. Although the exact severity remains uncertain, McKinstry was deemed eligible for this list. Additionally, other Saints players, including Juwan Johnson and Taliese Fuaga, are also being monitored.
also anticipated to be prepared for Week 1.
Anticipated return: Week 1
Pittsburgh Steelers
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During the first half of the Steelers’ preseason game against the Bills, Warren sustained a hamstring injury. This injury is anticipated to keep him out for several weeks, raising concerns about his availability for Week 1, as reported by NFL Media.
Expected return: Week 1
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Herbig has sustained a torn rotator cuff, which may lead to him missing the entirety of the 2024 season, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The injury occurred during Pittsburgh’s last training camp practice. It is anticipated that rookie second-round draft pick Zach Frazier will step in to fill his role.
Expected return: December
San Francisco 49ers
Earlier this month, McCaffrey sustained a calf injury; however, you can confidently draft him as the No. 1 overall pick in fantasy, as he is expected to play without missing any regular season games.
Expected return: Week 1
The top wide receiver for Tennessee sustained a knee injury in early August, which was anticipated to keep him sidelined for a duration of four to six weeks. This raises concerns about his availability for the first week of the season.
Anticipated return: Week 1
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2024 NFL Preseason Injury Report: Key Players and Their Expected Returns
Overview of 2024 NFL Preseason Injuries
The 2024 NFL preseason has seen its share of injuries, leaving fans and teams anxious about the potential impact on the regular season. With key players sidelined, understanding their injuries and expected return timelines is crucial for fans, fantasy football enthusiasts, and sports analysts alike. This article breaks down the most significant injuries from the preseason, providing insights into their nature, recovery timelines, and implications for the teams involved.
Key Players Injured in the 2024 Preseason
1. Patrick Mahomes (QB, Kansas City Chiefs)
In a surprising turn of events, Patrick Mahomes experienced a mild ankle sprain during a preseason game. Although the injury raised concerns, team officials have reported that he is expected to return ahead of the regular season.
- Injury Type: Mild Ankle Sprain
- Expected Return: Week 1
2. Derrick Henry (RB, Tennessee Titans)
Star running back Derrick Henry suffered a hamstring strain during training camp. While the Titans are cautious with his rehabilitation, they are optimistic about his recovery.
- Injury Type: Hamstring Strain
- Expected Return: Week 2
3. DeAndre Hopkins (WR, Tennessee Titans)
Joining Henry on the injury report, newly acquired wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is dealing with a shoulder injury. The Titans have taken a conservative approach, prioritizing his long-term health.
- Injury Type: Shoulder Injury
- Expected Return: Week 3
4. Tua Tagovailoa (QB, Miami Dolphins)
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered a concussion during a practice session. Given his history, the Dolphins are particularly vigilant in their assessment and recovery protocols.
- Injury Type: Concussion
- Expected Return: Week 1
5. George Kittle (TE, San Francisco 49ers)
Pro Bowl tight end George Kittle is dealing with a calf strain that has kept him out of preseason games. The 49ers are hopeful he will be ready for the season opener.
- Injury Type: Calf Strain
- Expected Return: Week 1
Impact on Team Performance
Injuries during the preseason can significantly affect a team’s performance, especially if key players are unable to contribute at the start of the regular season. Here’s how the aforementioned injuries may impact their teams:
- Kansas City Chiefs: Without Mahomes at full strength, the Chiefs may struggle offensively against tough opponents in the early weeks.
- Tennessee Titans: The absence of Henry and Hopkins could diminish the Titans’ offensive power, making it challenging to establish their run game.
- Miami Dolphins: Tua’s health is paramount for the Dolphins’ success; without him, their playoff aspirations could be in jeopardy.
- San Francisco 49ers: Kittle’s presence is crucial for both the passing and running game; his absence could lead to a less dynamic offense.
Injury Recovery Timelines
Understanding the expected recovery timelines for injured players can help fans gauge when their teams might return to full strength. Below is a table summarizing key injuries and their anticipated return dates:
| Player | Position | Injury Type | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patrick Mahomes | QB | Mild Ankle Sprain | Week 1 |
| Derrick Henry | RB | Hamstring Strain | Week 2 |
| DeAndre Hopkins | WR | Shoulder Injury | Week 3 |
| Tua Tagovailoa | QB | Concussion | Week 1 |
| George Kittle | TE | Calf Strain | Week 1 |
Benefits of Monitoring Preseason Injuries
Staying updated on preseason injuries offers several advantages:
- Fantasy Football Insights: Understanding player availability can help fantasy managers make informed decisions regarding drafts and lineup changes.
- Betting Strategies: Injury reports can influence betting odds, providing savvy bettors with an edge.
- Team Performance Predictions: Knowing which players are out can help fans gauge their team’s chances in upcoming matchups.
Practical Tips for Following NFL Injuries
To stay informed about NFL injuries throughout the preseason and regular season, consider the following tips:
- Subscribe to NFL Injury News: Websites and mobile apps focused on sports news provide timely updates.
- Follow Team Social Media Accounts: Teams often provide real-time updates regarding player injuries and recovery timelines.
- Engage with Fantasy Football Communities: Online forums and social media groups often discuss player injuries and speculative impacts.
Case Studies: Recovery and Impact
Examining previous cases of significant injuries can offer insights into potential outcomes for this season:
Case Study: Odell Beckham Jr. (2023)
After suffering a torn ACL in the previous season, Odell Beckham Jr. made a remarkable recovery and returned for the 2023 NFL season. His journey highlighted the importance of proper rehabilitation and training, ultimately leading to his successful return and impactful performance.
Case Study: Saquon Barkley (2022)
Saquon Barkley faced a tough recovery from a serious ankle injury, which caused him to miss most of the 2021 season. His 2022 comeback showcased resilience and adaptability, proving that with the right support, players can return to form after significant injuries.
First-Hand Experience: Dealing with Injuries in NFL
Former NFL players often share their experiences with injuries and recovery, shedding light on the mental and physical challenges they face:
- Mental Resilience: Many players emphasize the psychological aspect of recovery, noting that maintaining a positive mindset is crucial.
- Support Systems: Having a strong support network of trainers, coaches, and family members is vital for a successful comeback.
- Physical Therapy: Engaging in a comprehensive rehab program tailored to their injury helps players regain strength and mobility.
Conclusion
As the 2024 NFL preseason progresses, monitoring the injury status of key players is essential for understanding team dynamics and potential performance in the upcoming season. By staying informed, fans can better engage with their teams, whether through fantasy leagues or simply cheering from the sidelines.
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