The third week of NFL action brought intense drama and upheaval as several key players across multiple teams succumbed to injuries. As the season progresses, the impact of these injuries is set to test the depth and resilience of various squads.
Quarterback Woes
Justin Herbert's availability was a major point of concern leading up to Sunday's game due to an ankle injury. Despite initially being listed as questionable, Herbert took the field but unfortunately aggravated the injury in the third quarter against the Steelers, prompting an immediate trip to the sideline for X-rays. With Taylor Heinicke stepping in, the Chargers managed to maintain composure. The X-rays for Herbert’s ankle came back negative, offering a glimmer of hope for the team. "Herbert will be carefully monitored throughout the week," the team announced.
Another quarterback feeling the bite of injury was Sam Darnold, who briefly exited the Vikings' victory over the Texans with a knee problem. An MRI later revealed a bone bruise but, fortunately, no structural damage. Attention now turns to Jordan Love, who has been sidelined for the past two games with a sprained MCL. He will be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday, with head coach Matt LaFleur stating, "Love will at a minimum be a limited participant in practice starting Wednesday."
Other Key Injuries
The wide receiver corps was not spared, with DeVonta Smith suffering a concussion that ruled him out for the remainder of the game. Meanwhile, Britain Covey’s shoulder injury was diagnosed as a broken bone, sidelining him for multiple weeks. The Eagles will need to look deeper into their roster to fill these gaps.
Offensive lines took a hit too. Lane Johnson was ruled out with a concussion, while Mekhi Becton did not finish the first half due to an undisclosed injury. Rashawn Slater suffered a strained pectoral muscle, and Jedrick Wills Jr. also went down in the second half. Wyatt Teller was ruled out with a knee injury, which may potentially place him on injured reserve.
James Hudson sustained a shoulder injury in the game against New York, and Erik McCoy's groin injury continues to be evaluated. Additionally, Kaleb McGary is believed to have suffered a sprained MCL, and Drew Dalman sustained a high-ankle sprain.
Defense Under Pressure
The defensive side also saw significant setbacks. Leonard Williams left the game with a rib injury, while Byron Murphy was sidelined with a hamstring issue against the Dolphins. Jeffery Simmons' elbow injury is being monitored day-to-day along with Myles Garrett, who is dealing with lower-leg ailments linked to foot issues. Garrett momentarily left the game for treatment but managed to return. Kevin Stefanski acknowledged that Garrett’s status would be evaluated day-to-day.
Joey Bosa and Alex Highsmith were other significant absences owing to injuries. Nick Herbig stepped in for Highsmith, and the Steelers will hope he can continue to fill the gap effectively.
Marcus Davenport’s season came to a premature close due to a significant elbow injury, setting a harsh tone for the Saints. Kwity Paye and Adoree' Jackson were also sidelined, with Jackson not appearing in the second half against Cleveland. Cory Trice Jr. missed the Chargers matchup due to a hamstring injury, and Terell Smith was taken off with a hip injury, which after initial doubts, was confirmed that he wouldn’t return.
Upcoming Challenges
Chidobe Awuzie’s groin issue raises prospects of him being placed on injured reserve soon, forcing the Cincinnati Bengals to reconsider their defensive setup. Lastly, Marcus Epps tore his ACL in the loss to Carolina and is expected to be ready for play only in 2025.
This spate of injuries underscores the brutal and unforgiving nature of the NFL season. Teams will need to make strategic adjustments and leverage their bench strength to tide through these turbulent times.