The third week of NFL action has been marred by a wave of injuries, leaving teams scrambling to adjust their rosters and game plans. Key players have been sidelined, raising concerns about the impact on their respective teams' seasons.
Quarterbacks Under Siege
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert was initially listed as questionable due to an ankle injury. However, during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, he aggravated the injury in the third quarter and had to undergo X-rays. The good news for Chargers fans is that the X-rays came back negative. Taylor Heinicke stepped in under center, providing temporary relief. "Herbert will be carefully monitored throughout the week," a source said, indicating that the team is taking no chances with their star quarterback.
Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love has been out for the past two games with a sprained MCL. The Packers have adopted a cautious approach, with Love set to be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday. Head coach Matt LaFleur stated, "Love will at a minimum be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday," highlighting the team's careful management of his recovery. The Packers are taking Love's progress day-by-day, emphasizing the significance of his role in their future plans.
Wide Receivers and Defensive Woes
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith suffered a concussion and was ruled out for the remainder of the game. In addition, Britain Covey was ruled out with a shoulder injury, later diagnosed as a broken bone that will sideline him for multiple weeks. Offensive lineman Lane Johnson also suffered a concussion, adding to the Eagles' injury headaches.
The New York Jets' Mekhi Becton did not finish the first half due to an undisclosed injury, while the Los Angeles Chargers' Rashawn Slater suffered a strained pectoral muscle. Similarly, Jedrick Wills Jr. of the Cleveland Browns went down in the second half, further complicating matters for the team. Wyatt Teller's knee injury is severe enough that it may potentially land him on injured reserve, a significant blow for the Browns' offensive line.
More Injuries Across the League
The injury list doesn't end there. James Hudson also suffered a shoulder injury in a game against New York, while Erik McCoy's groin injury is still being evaluated. Kaleb McGary is believed to have suffered a sprained MCL, and Drew Dalman sustained a high-ankle sprain. Joe Alt’s sprained MCL will keep him off the field, though surgery won't be required for his recovery.
Leonard Williams left the game with a rib injury and was ruled out. The Tennessee Titans are dealing with several injuries as well. Head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged that Myles Garrett’s lower-leg ailments, linked to foot issues, would be evaluated day-to-day. Garrett had to leave the game momentarily for treatment but managed to return to the field. However, his status remains under watchful eyes. "Head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged that Garrett’s status would be evaluated day-to-day," a team source mentioned.
Season-Ending Injuries and Defensive Adjustments
San Francisco 49ers' Marcus Davenport suffered a significant elbow injury, bringing his season to a premature close. Colts' Kwity Paye will be out for an unspecified duration due to a quad injury. Meanwhile, Adoree' Jackson did not appear on the field in the second half against Cleveland, and Cory Trice Jr.’s hamstring injury kept him out of the Chargers matchup.
The struggles continued for Chicago Bears as Terell Smith was taken off with a hip injury. Initially considered doubtful, Smith was later confirmed as unable to return. Chidobe Awuzie’s groin issue could see him on injured reserve soon, adding to the Bengals' defensive depth concerns.
In a particularly painful loss for the Carolina Panthers, Marcus Epps tore his ACL. Epps is expected to be ready for play in 2025, which presents a long road to recovery for the player and a significant gap in the Panthers' defensive lineup.
These injuries serve as a stark reminder of the brutal physicality of the NFL. As teams attempt to navigate these challenges, strategic adjustments by the coaching staff become paramount. The coaching teams are now tasked with not only managing the existing player roster but also preparing for potential future setbacks as the season progresses.