The NFL season is already reeling from a wave of injuries as Week 3 concludes, leaving teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Los Angeles Chargers, and others shuffling their lineups and assessing their depth.
Philadelphia Eagles Hit Hard
The Philadelphia Eagles were one of the teams significantly affected during Week 3. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith was ruled out due to a concussion after taking a jarring hit in the second half. The team's special teams unit also took a hit, with Britain Covey sidelined due to a shoulder injury.
The offensive line didn’t escape unscathed either. Lane Johnson was ruled out with a concussion in the game against the New Orleans Saints. These injuries will test the Eagles' roster depth and adaptability as the season progresses.
Los Angeles Chargers' Quarterback Dilemma
The Los Angeles Chargers also faced significant setbacks. Quarterback Justin Herbert, who was already listed as questionable for Sunday’s game because of an ankle injury, seemed to re-aggravate the same ankle in the third quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Herbert confirmed after the game that this was indeed the case, saying, "Herbert was originally listed as questionable to play Sunday due to an ankle injury, and he appeared to aggravate the ankle in the third quarter vs. the Steelers (he confirmed as much afterwards)." Subsequently, backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke was called upon to take over for Herbert.
Other Key Injuries Across the League
Wide receiver Van Jefferson of the Rams suffered an eye injury, and the Detroit Lions' tight end Sam LaPorta endured a low-ankle sprain, both contributing to their respective team's injury woes. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns' injury list continued to grow. Mekhi Becton was injured in the first half, followed by Jedrick Wills Jr., who went down later in the same game. Wyatt Teller was ruled out with a knee injury, and James Hudson suffered a shoulder injury. The Browns are now dealing with significant injuries across their offensive line, which may hinder their offensive productivity moving forward.
Saints and Steelers Face Their Own Challenges
For the New Orleans Saints, Erik McCoy was ruled out with a groin injury, adding to their concerns. The Pittsburgh Steelers, on the other hand, saw Joey Bosa ruled out after playing just one snap against the Chargers. Alex Highsmith also left Sunday's game with a groin injury, leaving the team to reassess their defensive formations.
Giants and Browns Defensive Setbacks
Myles Garrett of the Giants briefly left the field in the fourth quarter against the Steelers but managed to return. Nevertheless, the impact of his short absence was felt. Adoree' Jackson was missing from the field for the second half of Cleveland’s matchup, while Cory Trice Jr. was sidelined for the remainder of the game due to a hamstring issue.
As the NFL season advances, teams will be forced to juggle their lineups to account for these mounting injuries. The depth and resilience of each roster will be crucial as every franchise adapts to the evolving challenges.