The NFL preseason has been a grueling test of endurance and resilience for all 32 teams, with injuries casting a shadow over what is typically a time of optimism and fine-tuning. The injury reports read like a who's who of crucial team assets, revealing the harsh reality that no team is immune to the physical toll of the sport.
Season-Altering Injuries
Among the prominent names sidelined is Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason. Moore's dreams of making an immediate impact on his new team were shattered when he suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. The scene at the practice field was grim; Moore was seen exiting with an air cast on his right leg and was quickly transported to a local medical facility. Expectations are set for Moore's return in 2025, a timeline shared by several other unfortunate players.
The Atlanta Falcons were dealt another blow when their No. 74 overall pick, Trice, tore his ACL in his first preseason game. Like Moore, Trice is not expected to return until 2025, a significant setback for the team's future planning and development. Similarly, Evans and Williams are out for the season due to severe knee injuries and are scheduled to return in two years. These injuries have disrupted the Falcons' strategy and will compel the coaching staff to make difficult roster decisions.
Mid-Season Returns
Although some players face extended recovery periods, a few injuries come with more optimistic timelines. Milano's torn biceps will keep him sidelined for the majority of the season, but there is hope for a comeback by December. A similar timeline is in place for Herbig, who is currently nursing a torn rotator cuff. These players' anticipated returns could provide a much-needed boost for their teams during the latter part of the season.
Meanwhile, the Bengals' first-round pick, who suffered a strained pectoral muscle, is expected to be ready by Week 2. This quick recovery will be a relief to a team eager to see their new talent in action.
Short-Term Setbacks
Some injuries are less severe but still significant enough to cause concern. Curtis Samuel is dealing with turf toe, which is always unpredictable, but he is expected to return by Week 2. MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a preseason victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is targeting a return by Week 3. The same week could see the return of other key players like Dane Jackson, who is grappling with a significant hamstring injury, and Brooks, who tore his ACL.
Dane Jackson’s significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL are likely to keep them off the field until Week 4. Dave Canales, in particular, has expressed cautious optimism about Brooks' recovery, stating that "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
Ongoing Concerns
For some, the path to recovery is longer and fraught with complications. Chubb, who has been dealing with a lingering knee issue since last season, has undergone multiple surgeries and remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. His earliest expected return is by Week 5, but more realistic projections place him around Week 8. Similarly, Tennessee's No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are both racing against time to recover from knee injuries sustained in early August, aiming for Week 1 returns.
Injuries have also impacted notable players like Higbee, who is slated to rejoin his team by Week 15 due to ACL and MCL injuries. The Lions' second-year running back pulled a hamstring, which, while not deemed serious, adds another layer of concern for the team.
Light at the End of the Tunnel
Despite the spate of injuries, there are faint glimmers of hope. Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off the PUP list last week and is expected back by Week 1. Warren, another player nursing a hamstring injury, is also expected to return in time for the season opener.
Preseason injuries have undeniably disrupted evaluations and preparations, forcing coaches and staff to adapt. The hope remains that the early setbacks will pave the way for stellar comebacks, ultimately shaping a narrative of resilience and recovery as the NFL season progresses.