Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, and this preseason has been no exception. All 32 teams have faced significant setbacks, with key players sustaining serious injuries that impact their availability for the upcoming season.
Season-Ending Injuries
Among the most notable is Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason. Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. The scene was somber as Moore exited the practice field, his right leg encased in an air cast, and he was immediately transported to a local medical facility. This untimely injury means Moore is not expected to return until 2025.
In a similarly devastating blow to the Falcons, Trice, their No. 74 overall pick, tore his ACL in his first preseason game. Trice, like Moore, is also expected to return in 2025.
Evans joins the list of players missing an entire season due to a severe injury. A torn patellar tendon will keep him sidelined, with a return anticipated in 2025.
Williams, who suffered an ACL tear during training camp, follows the same timeline, aiming for a 2025 return. Additionally, McCarthy's torn meniscus puts him out for the rest of this season, with expectations set for his return in 2025.
Significant Long-Term Absences
A torn biceps injury will keep Milano off the field for the majority of the season, though there is some hope for an optimistic return in December. Herbig’s torn rotator cuff similarly sidelines him until December.
Chubb, still recovering from multiple knee surgeries from last season, is not expected back until at least Week 5. Currently on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list since Week 17, Chubb may extend his absence to Week 8.
Short-Term Injuries and Expected Returns
While there are many long-term absences, some players face shorter recovery periods. Curtis Samuel is considered "week to week" with turf toe and is expected to be back by Week 2. 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 additional concerns for their respective teams, with hopes for their return by Week 4. Bengals' first-round pick, dealing with a strained pectoral muscle, is expected to be ready by Week 2.
Tennessee’s No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are both aiming for returns by Week 1 after an early August knee injury.
Meanwhile, Higbee, who suffered ACL and MCL injuries, has a longer road to recovery, with a return anticipated by Week 15. The Lions' second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury this month, but it is "not expected to be a serious issue" and should see an earlier return.
Coaches’ Take on Recovery Timelines
Despite the daunting number of injuries, some teams are managing to remain optimistic. Dave Canales, addressing the potential return of Brooks, highlighted the best-case scenario: "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return," he stated, reflecting the team’s adaptive strategies to fill the gaps while managing expectations for their star players' recoveries.
Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off the PUP list last week and is expected back by Week 1. Similarly, Warren, sidelined during a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, is anticipated to be back by Week 1.
These preseason injuries have undeniably disrupted evaluations and preparations across the NFL. Coaches and staff are now forced to adapt their game plans and find solutions within their rosters as they brace for the regular season. With key players out, the focus shifts to depth and resilience, critical components that will define the upcoming NFL season.