Injuries are an inevitable part of the NFL landscape, and this preseason has been no exception. All 32 teams have encountered significant setbacks as key players have sustained serious injuries, impacting their availability for the upcoming season. The Falcons, in particular, have been hit hard with the loss of several key contributors.
Moore, who was traded to Atlanta this offseason, suffered a devastating season-ending knee injury earlier this month. His exit from the practice field was marked by an air cast on his right leg and an immediate transport to a local medical facility. The prognosis is grim for Moore, who is expected to return in 2025, leaving a significant gap in the Falcons' defensive plans.
Young Talent Sidelined
The Falcons' No. 74 overall pick, Trice, faced a similar fate. Trice tore his ACL in his first preseason game and is also anticipated to be back in action in 2025. This injury derails his rookie campaign and forces the team to rethink their defensive lineup for the season opener.
Evans adds to the Falcons' injury woes with a torn patellar tendon. He will miss the entire regular season and, like Moore and Trice, is expected to make his return in 2025. Meanwhile, Williams, who tore his ACL during training camp, awaits the same prolonged recovery timeline, highlighting the extensive injury list for Atlanta.
Impact Across the League
Injuries have not spared other teams either. Milano's torn biceps will keep him off the field for the majority of the season, although there is hope he might return by December. Curtis Samuel is considered "week to week" with turf toe and is expected to be back by Week 2, providing a glimmer of optimism for his squad.
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, however, are likely to keep them off the field until Week 4. Meanwhile, the Bengals' first-round pick, dealing with a strained pectoral muscle from their first preseason game, is expected to be ready by Week 2.
Long-Term Recoveries
McCarthy is another player facing a long road to recovery. Suffering a torn meniscus, he is anticipated to return in 2025. Herbig’s torn rotator cuff has ruled him out until December, adding to the list of players enduring substantial injuries.
Chubb, dealing with a knee injury from last season that required multiple surgeries, is one player whose return is under close watch. He remains on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list since Week 17 last season, with a potential return by Week 8. Additionally, Tennessee’s No. 1 wideout and the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year are aiming for returns by Week 1 after suffering knee injuries in early August.
Smaller Setbacks, Swift Returns
Several players are dealing with injuries that, while significant, have more immediate return timelines. Higbee will rejoin the team by Week 15 following ACL and MCL injuries. The Lions' second-year running back sustained a hamstring injury this month but it is "not expected to be a serious issue," providing some relief for Detroit fans.
Phillips, who suffered a torn Achilles, was activated off PUP last week and is expected back 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. For Brooks, Dave Canales remained optimistic, saying, "Week 3 or Week 4 would be 'great' for Brooks' return."
Preseason injuries have disrupted evaluations and preparations, forcing coaches and staff to adapt their strategies rapidly. These setbacks require a reevaluation of depth charts and could potentially influence in-game strategies as the NFL heads into the regular season. While some players face extended periods away from the field, others are on the cusp of making their return, highlighting the unpredictable and challenging nature of professional football.