As NFL training camps kick into high gear, several teams are already grappling with significant injuries to key players, casting a shadow over their early preparations for the season ahead.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Plagued by Injuries
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers appear to be especially hard-hit during this period, with multiple players finding themselves sidelined. On Thursday, rookie pass rusher YaYa Diaby was carted off the practice field with a high-ankle sprain. Diaby, a highly anticipated addition to the Buccaneers' defensive front, is expected to play a crucial role upon his return.
The offensive line woes for Tampa Bay deepened as well, with guard Sua Opeta suffering a torn ACL that will keep him out for the season. Opeta had signed a one-year deal and was in a competitive battle for the starting left guard position alongside Ben Bredeson. With Opeta's injury, Bredeson has now taken over reps with the starting lineup. This injury further exacerbates the void left by key players like Matt Feiler and Aaron Stinnie from last season.
Kansas City Chiefs' Adjustments
Over at the Kansas City Chiefs' camp, the team bolstered its wide receiver corps, including the addition of first-round pick Xavier Worthy. However, the positive momentum was dampened when veteran pass rusher Nick Bolton exited practice early with an apparent arm injury. Bolton missed time last season due to wrist surgery, raising concerns about his availability moving forward.
Dallas Cowboys’ Defensive Concerns
The Dallas Cowboys are also feeling the impact of the injury bug, with Sam Williams suffering a torn ACL during Sunday’s practice, leading to his placement on injured reserve. Williams was anticipated to support the formidable pass-rushing duo of Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence, making his absence a notable setback for the Cowboys' defense.
49ers and Ravens Dealing with Setbacks
San Francisco 49ers' Samson Ebukam tore his Achilles tendon, sidelining him for the season. Meanwhile, Rashod Bateman of the Baltimore Ravens left Monday's practice after sustaining a hit to the rib/stomach area. Coach John Harbaugh, however, described the issue as "merely soreness," bringing some relief to the Ravens' camp.
Other Teams Manage Injuries
Early reports suggest that Cincinnati's Sam Hubbard's knee injury, which saw him carted off the practice field, is not considered serious. In Los Angeles, Rams’ cornerback Darious Williams is dealing with a hamstring strain. Head coach Sean McVay assured that the team will manage Williams' recovery cautiously, noting that they will take it "a week at a time."
New Orleans Saints' Kendre Miller left the first camp practice with a hamstring injury. Miller, who appeared in just eight games last year, faces pressure to prove his durability. Head coach Dennis Allen did not mince words about the running back's situation, suggesting Miller needs to "figure out how to stay healthy."
In Buffalo, the competition for the No. 2 running back spot is heating up, but Ty Johnson’s participation has been interrupted by a hamstring injury. Johnson has been in rotation with rookie Ray Davis, while starter James Cook recently returned to practice after a brief personal leave.
Chicago Bears' Nate Davis has missed several sessions with an undisclosed muscle strain, while Justin Watson’s foot injury could shift opportunities to third-year player Skyy Moore. Watson achieved a career-high 460 receiving yards in 2023, and his absence might pave the way for Moore to assert himself further in the lineup.
As training camps continue, the battle with injuries remains a significant challenge for many NFL teams. These early setbacks could shape the initial weeks of the regular season, placing greater emphasis on depth and resilience as teams strive to keep their seasons on track.