Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, and this preseason has been no exception. Every one of the 32 teams has faced significant setbacks as key players have sustained serious injuries, impacting their availability for the upcoming season.
Preseason Setbacks
One of the most notable injuries was to Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason. Moore suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. His exit from the practice field, marked by an air cast on his right leg and immediate transport to a local medical facility, underscored the severity of the injury. Moore is expected to return in 2025.
Trice, the Falcons' No. 74 overall pick, also tore his ACL in his first preseason game. Similar to Moore, Trice is anticipated to return in 2025. Another blow to the Falcons came with Evans, who will miss the entire regular season due to a torn patellar tendon and is likewise expected back in 2025.
Williams, another unfortunate case, tore his ACL during training camp and won't see the field again until 2025. Meanwhile, Milano suffered a torn biceps, sidelining him for the majority of the season. Optimistically, Milano's return is scheduled for December.
Return Timelines
On a slightly brighter note, some players have less severe injuries and are expected to return sooner. Curtis Samuel is considered "week to week" with turf toe and should be back by Week 2. MVS, who sustained a neck sprain during a preseason Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, is likely to return by Week 3.
Dane Jackson's significant hamstring injury and Brooks' torn ACL are projected to keep them out until at least Week 4. The Bengals' first-round pick, who suffered a strained pectoral muscle in their first preseason game, is expected to be ready by Week 2.
Herbig's torn rotator cuff has ruled him out until December, while Chubb’s knee injury from last season led to multiple surgeries. Chubb remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list since Week 17 and is eyeing a potential return by Week 8.
Coaches Optimistic
The Tennessee Titans have had their share of injury woes, but there is some optimism. The team’s No. 1 wideout and reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year aim for returns by Week 1 after suffering knee injuries in early August. Dave Canales, the offensive coordinator, expressed optimism, stating, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
For the Detroit Lions, their second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury this month, although it is "not expected to be a serious issue." Similarly, Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off the PUP list last week and is on track to be ready by Week 1. Warren, who was sidelined in a preseason game against the Bills due to a hamstring injury, is also expected back by Week 1.
Adapting and Moving Forward
The cascade of preseason injuries has undoubtedly disrupted evaluations and preparations for the NFL season. Coaches and staff are now forced to adapt, adjusting game plans and depth charts to account for the missing players.
As the season inches closer, the hopeful returns of multiple injured players provide a glimmer of optimism amid the setbacks. While the road to recovery varies from one player to another, the collective determination to bounce back remains a common thread throughout the league.
As fans and teams alike brace for the season ahead, the NFL's resilience will be tested, highlighting the intrinsic toughness and adaptability that define the sport. The trajectory of the 2023 season will undoubtedly be influenced by how teams manage these early challenges, with the hope that the injured stars will make triumphant returns.