As the NFL season enters its third week, the gridiron has turned into a battle not just of strategy and skill, but of endurance and resilience, as teams across the league face an avalanche of injuries. The physical toll of the game has sidelined several key players, forcing coaches to adapt quickly and reconsider their game plans.
Quarterback Troubles
Justin Herbert’s appearance on the injury report was a cause for concern for Chargers fans. Initially listed as questionable due to an ankle injury, Herbert aggravated the injury in the third quarter of the game against the Steelers. Taylor Heinicke took over as Herbert underwent X-rays, which fortunately came back negative. However, his status remains a key area of focus. "Herbert will be carefully monitored throughout the week," team sources indicated.
Meanwhile, the Packers have been managing without Jordan Love, who has been out with a sprained MCL for the past two games. Head coach Matt LaFleur noted, "Love will at a minimum be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday." The team is approaching his recovery with a day-by-day mindset, underscoring the uncertainty that lingers around his return.
Concerning Concussions
The concussion protocols were activated for multiple players this week. DeVonta Smith’s game was cut short due to a concussion, and he was promptly ruled out. The Eagles' injury woes were compounded by Britain Covey’s shoulder injury, diagnosed as a broken bone that will keep him out for several weeks. Lane Johnson also exited the game with a concussion, leaving the Eagles' roster thin at crucial positions.
Defensive Setbacks
Defensive units around the league also took a hit. The Packers saw Rashawn Slater leave with a strained pectoral muscle and Jedrick Wills Jr. go down in the second half. Wyatt Teller’s knee injury has the potential to land him on injured reserve. James Hudson and Erik McCoy sustained shoulder and groin injuries respectively, with McCoy’s condition still being evaluated.
Further, Leonard Williams’ rib injury forced him to exit the game prematurely, while Byron Murphy was sidelined with a hamstring issue. Titans head coach Brian Callahan mentioned to reporters that Jeffery Simmons' elbow injury would be monitored day-to-day. Myles Garrett's foot-related lower-leg ailments saw him momentarily leave the game for treatment, but he managed to return. "Head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged that Garrett’s status would be evaluated day-to-day."
Season-Ending Blows
Some injuries have proved to be more severe, marking the end of the season for key players. Marcus Davenport’s significant elbow injury has brought his season to a premature close. Defensive star Marcus Epps tore his ACL in a loss to Carolina and is expected to be ready for play in 2025. Such losses will require major adjustments for their respective teams.
Other Notable Injuries
The Falcons are dealing with Kaleb McGary’s sprained MCL and Drew Dalman’s high-ankle sprain. Joe Alt's sprained MCL will keep him off the field, although surgery won’t be necessary for his recovery. Mekhi Becton, Terell Smith, and Alex Highsmith also joined the list of injured players, reducing their respective teams' depth. Adoree' Jackson and Cory Trice Jr. were unable to compete due to unspecified injuries, adding to the mounting challenges.
Chidobe Awuzie’s groin issue could potentially lead to a stint on injured reserve, while Kwity Paye will miss action due to a quad injury. The Giants and Steelers also felt the impact, with Joey Bosa and Alex Highsmith being ruled out. Steelers head coach Shane Steichen confirmed these developments to the press.
The repercussions of these injuries are profound, necessitating strategic tweaks from coaching staff across the NFL. As teams confront this wave of physical setbacks, their ability to adapt and innovate will be tested in the weeks to come.