Injuries continue to cast a long shadow over the 2024 NFL season, significantly affecting numerous teams as the weeks roll by. Several franchises face the daunting task of overcoming key player absences, which could potentially alter the landscape of the entire campaign.
Rams and Dolphins Hit Hard
The Los Angeles Rams are grappling with a slew of injuries, presenting head coach Sean McVay with the challenge of galvanizing a depleted squad. Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins have been dealt a severe blow with the placement of their standout quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, on injured reserve following another head injury sustained against the Buffalo Bills.
Patriots' Extensive Injury List
The New England Patriots are facing their own uphill battle with multiple players sidelined. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), and linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder) and Oshane Ximines (knee) are all confirmed out. The uncertainty extends further with center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder), all listed as questionable.
New York Jets' Challenges
The New York Jets are another team struggling with injuries. Linebacker Jermaine Johnson II has been ruled out due to an Achilles injury, while C.J. Mosley remains questionable with a toe injury. Reflecting on the complications these injuries bring, quotes around the team's prognosis suggest that "His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play."
Steeler Woes
The Pittsburgh Steelers are operating with the likelihood that they will miss star quarterback Russell Wilson for their upcoming game against the Chargers. Their rookie, Roman Wilson, is also limited by an ankle injury, adding to the team's extensive injury list.
Giants' Limited Practice Participation
For the New York Giants, cornerback Nick McCloud's knee injury kept him out of practice on Wednesday. Additionally, players Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) were limited participants, amplifying the team's concerns about player readiness.
Cleveland Browns' Key Absences
The Cleveland Browns face their own set of challenges with tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) all missing practice. Coach Kevin Stefanski's outlook offers little hope for Njoku's return, stating, "it's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday." The Browns have also reported limited practice participation from edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee).
Packers, Titans, and Bears News
The Green Bay Packers saw quarterback Jordan Love return to practice, yet they still dealt with limited participation from running back Josh Jacobs (back), tight end Tucker Kraft, and several linemen. The Titans had running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) as the sole absentee from practice. The Bears were notably without wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh).
Colts and Texans Updates
In Indianapolis, kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) highlight the Colts' injury report. The Houston Texans had a significant number of absentees, with seven players missing practice, including running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot).
Vikings' and Saints' Setbacks
The Minnesota Vikings saw Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip) limited in practice. The New Orleans Saints had linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest) out of practice. Head coach Dennis Allen indicated, "the plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully." Moreover, cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) missed action during the Saints' recent blowout win over the Cowboys.
Chargers and Broncos
Quarterback Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers missed practice due to an ankle issue. The Denver Broncos also faced injury woes with linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) affected.
Detroit Lions' Defensive Concerns
Four out of five Detroit Lions players who didn't practice were on the defensive side. Notably, linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring) sat out. Offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee) also missed practice, although wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown (quad) was a full participant.
As teams navigate through these challenges, the extent of these injuries may well determine the dynamics and outcomes of the upcoming fixtures, adding an unpredictable element to an already riveting NFL season.