The 2024 NFL season has been marred by a series of injuries, significantly affecting several teams in the early weeks. Notably, the Los Angeles Rams find themselves in a precarious position as head coach Sean McVay attempts to rally a squad riddled with absences.
Key Players on Injured Reserve
One of the most impactful injuries this season is that of Miami Dolphins star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Placed on injured reserve following another head injury sustained against the Buffalo Bills, his absence leaves a considerable void. Meanwhile, in New England, the Patriots are struggling with multiple injuries. Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe (knee), guard Sidy Sow (ankle), linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley (shoulder), and Oshane Ximines (knee) are all confirmed out. Moreover, center David Andrews (hip), offensive lineman Mike Onwenu (wrist), safety Jabrill Peppers (shoulder), and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. (shoulder) are listed as questionable.
The New York Jets are not faring much better. Linebacker Jermaine Johnson II is out with an Achilles injury, while linebacker C.J. Mosley remains questionable due to a toe injury. "His recent quotes seem to indicate he will be pretty physically compromised if he does play," insiders reveal.
Pittsburgh Steelers Face Quarterback Dilemma
The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for a challenging game against the Chargers without their star quarterback Russell Wilson. The Steelers are also managing injury issues with their rookie Roman Wilson, who is limited by an ankle injury.
Similarly, the New York Giants are dealing with a slew of injuries, notably cornerback Nick McCloud, who missed practice due to a knee injury. Limited participants in practice included Darius Muasau and Kayvon Thibodeaux, both of whom are nursing shoulder injuries.
Cleveland Browns' Key Players Sit Out Practice
The Cleveland Browns are contending with their own set of challenges. Tight end David Njoku (ankle), edge rusher Myles Garrett (foot), and offensive tackle Dawand Jones (knee) did not participate in practice on Wednesday. Head coach Kevin Stefanski said, "It's unlikely Njoku will suit up Sunday." Limited practice participants included edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (back), cornerback Denzel Ward (shoulder), and offensive tackle Jedrick Wills (knee).
Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions Manage Injuries
The Green Bay Packers have seen a slight glimmer of hope with quarterback Jordan Love returning to practice. However, the team still struggles with several limited participants, including running back Josh Jacobs (back), tight end Tucker Kraft, and various linemen on both sides of the ball. Notably absent from practice were offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (illness/glute) and Jordan Morgan (shoulder), wide receiver Jordan Reed (calf), and cornerback Carrington Valentine (ankle).
Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions are managing injuries across their roster. Linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion) and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring) did not practice, nor did offensive lineman Graham Glasgow (knee). Wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown participated fully despite a quad issue.
Significant Absences Across the League
The Titans' Tyjae Spears (ankle) was the sole player unable to practice, while the Bears missed key figures like wideout Keenan Allen (heel) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (thigh). "Matt Eberflus said there is no timetable regarding the return of Allen," adding to the uncertainty.
The Indianapolis Colts’ injury report highlights kicker Matt Gay (right quad) and defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip). Similarly, seven Houston Texans players, including running back Joe Mixon (ankle) and wide receiver Nico Collins (hip/foot), did not practice on Wednesday.
The Minnesota Vikings also faced limitations with Pro Bowl wideout Justin Jefferson (quad) and running back Aaron Jones (hip) who were both limited in practice. On another front, the New Orleans Saints were without linebacker D'Marco Jackson (calf), defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (calf), and tight end Taysom Hill (chest). Dennis Allen stated, "The plan is for Hill to be limited on Thursday, aiming to manage his workload carefully."
The Los Angeles Chargers dealt with a notable absentee in quarterback Justin Herbert due to an ankle issue. On the other side of the spectrum, Broncos' linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and safety Brandon Jones (foot) are struggling with injuries themselves.
The Road Ahead
As teams navigate these turbulent times, managing injuries and the physical toll on their rosters will be crucial to their success. The spate of injuries has underscored the importance of depth and resilience in a season already full of surprises and setbacks.