As NFL training camps kick into high gear, several teams are already grappling with the challenge of significant injuries to key players. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers find themselves particularly beleaguered with multiple players sidelined, raising concerns as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Trouble in the Trenches
The Buccaneers' woes began when rookie pass rusher YaYa Diaby was carted off the practice field with a high-ankle sprain. Diaby, expected to be a crucial element in Tampa Bay's defensive front, will now need time to heal, adding to the team's defensive concerns. The offensive line isn't faring much better. Guard Sua Opeta tore his ACL, sidelining him for the entire season. Opeta, who signed a one-year deal with Tampa Bay, was in contention for the starting left guard spot alongside Ben Bredeson.
In the wake of Opeta's injury, Bredeson has taken over reps with the starters, stepping into a role made even more critical by the departures of key players like Matt Feiler and Aaron Stinnie from last season. The offensive line, already facing a void, will need to adapt quickly to maintain stability.
Kansas City Chiefs: Reinforcements and Setbacks
The Kansas City Chiefs have been active in adjusting their roster, adding several wide receivers, including first-round pick Xavier Worthy. However, veteran pass rusher Nick Bolton exited practice early with an apparent arm injury. Bolton, who missed time last season due to wrist surgery, will need to be monitored closely as the Chiefs look to avoid any long-term setbacks for their season plans.
Dallas Cowboys: A Devastating Blow
For the Dallas Cowboys, the loss of Sam Williams to a torn ACL is a significant blow. Williams, who was expected to support the formidable pass-rushing duo of Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence, has been placed on injured reserve, creating a gap in the Cowboys' defensive lineup.
San Francisco 49ers: A Season on Hold
Samson Ebukam of the San Francisco 49ers has also been sidelined for the season after tearing his Achilles tendon. This injury compounds the 49ers' challenges, as they will need to find alternative ways to maintain their defensive strength without Ebukam's presence on the field.
Baltimore Ravens: A Close Call
Rashod Bateman of the Baltimore Ravens gave the team a scare when he left Monday's practice after sustaining a hit to the rib/stomach area. Coach John Harbaugh described the issue as "merely soreness," suggesting that Bateman might not be out for long.
Other Noteworthy Injuries
Sam Hubbard of the Cincinnati Bengals faced a similarly tense moment when he was carted off practice with a knee injury. Early reports indicate that Hubbard's knee injury is not considered serious, offering a glimmer of hope for his swift return. Meanwhile, Darious Williams is sidelined with a hamstring strain, but Rams’ head coach Sean McVay assured that the team will manage Williams' recovery cautiously, stating, "The team will not rush him back and will take it 'a week at a time.'"
New Orleans Saints: Hamstring Troubles
Kendre Miller of the New Orleans Saints left the team’s first camp practice with a hamstring injury. Having appeared in just eight games last year, Miller's durability remains a concern. Head coach Dennis Allen did not mince words about Miller's situation, suggesting the running back needs to "figure out how to stay healthy." This candid appraisal reflects the growing impatience within the organization for Miller to prove his reliability on the field.
Chicago Bears and Beyond: A Mixed Bag
Nate Davis of the Chicago Bears has missed several sessions with an undisclosed muscle strain, adding to the list of injuries plaguing NFL training camps. Additionally, Justin Watson of the Kansas City Chiefs is dealing with a foot injury. Watson, who had a career-high 460 receiving yards in 2023, now leaves the door open for more opportunities for third-year player Skyy Moore.
Battle for Positions: Rotations and Returns
In Buffalo, Ty Johnson is sitting out Tuesday's practice due to a hamstring injury. Johnson has been in a rotation for the No. 2 running back position alongside rookie Ray Davis. Starter James Cook recently returned to practice after a brief personal leave, adding some stability to the position for the Buffalo Bills.
As these training camps progress, the teams will undoubtedly face more twists and turns. Injuries remain an ever-present concern, influencing both roster decisions and game strategies. With the regular season approaching, the resilience and adaptability of these teams will be put to the test.