As NFL training camps swing into full gear, several teams are already facing significant setbacks due to injuries to key players. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers appear to be one of the hardest-hit teams, with multiple players sidelined this early in the pre-season.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Injury Concerns
Rookie pass rusher YaYa Diaby was carted off the field on Thursday with a high-ankle sprain. Diaby, considered a crucial element in Tampa Bay's defensive front, will be sorely missed while he recovers.
Tragedy also struck the Buccaneers' offensive line as guard Sua Opeta suffered a torn ACL, ending his season before it even began. Opeta, who signed a one-year deal with Tampa Bay and was competing for the starting left guard spot, leaves a considerable void. Ben Bredeson will take over the starting reps in the wake of Opeta's injury. The absence of key players like Matt Feiler and Aaron Stinnie from last season has already created a significant gap in the offensive line, further compounded by these recent injuries.
Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys' Struggles
Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs are also dealing with their share of challenges. Veteran pass rusher Nick Bolton exited practice early with an apparent arm injury. Bolton missed time last season due to wrist surgery, making this a concerning development for the Chiefs.
On the wide receiver front, the Chiefs added several new faces, including first-round pick Xavier Worthy, as they seek to bolster their aerial attack.
The Dallas Cowboys are not unscathed either. Sam Williams suffered a torn ACL during Sunday’s practice and will be placed on injured reserve. Williams was expected to play a significant role in supporting the formidable pass-rushing duo of Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence.
Injury Woes for the 49ers and Ravens
In another significant setback, Samson Ebukam of the San Francisco 49ers tore his Achilles tendon and will miss the entire season. This loss adds to the growing list of concerns for the 49ers as they prepare for the new season.
Rashod Bateman from the Baltimore Ravens left Monday's practice after sustaining a hit to the rib/stomach area. While the severity of Bateman's injury is still being evaluated, Coach John Harbaugh described the issue as "merely soreness," providing a slight relief to the Ravens' camp.
Mixed Fortunes in Cincinnati and Los Angeles
The Cincinnati Bengals also faced a scare when Sam Hubbard was carted off the practice field with a knee injury. However, early reports suggest that his knee injury is not considered serious, offering a glimmer of hope for Bengals fans.
For the Los Angeles Rams, Darious Williams is sidelined with a hamstring strain. Head coach Sean McVay assured fans that the team will manage Williams' recovery cautiously and will not rush him back, taking it "a week at a time."
Hamstring Troubles in New Orleans and New York
The New Orleans Saints are dealing with the loss of Kendre Miller, who left the team’s first camp practice with a hamstring injury. Miller appeared in just eight games last year and has been advised by head coach Dennis Allen to "figure out how to stay healthy."
Similarly, Ty Johnson of the New York Jets is sitting out of practice due to a hamstring injury. Johnson has been vying for the No. 2 running back position alongside rookie Ray Davis. The starter, James Cook, recently returned to practice after a brief personal leave, adding some stability to the backfield.
Other Notable Absences
Nate Davis of the Chicago Bears has missed several sessions with an undisclosed muscle strain, raising questions about his availability for the upcoming season. The Bears, like many other teams, will have to navigate these setbacks while keeping an eye on the long-term health of their players.
Justin Watson is dealing with a foot injury, which comes as a blow to a player who had a career-high 460 receiving yards in 2023. His absence opens the door for third-year player Skyy Moore to step up and make a significant impact.
As the NFL training camps progress, the specter of injury remains a significant concern for teams across the league. These early setbacks will test the depth and resilience of rosters and could shape the course of the upcoming season in unforeseen ways.