Week 2 of the 2024 NFL season will be remembered not just for the on-field battles but for a wave of injuries that has afflicted key players across multiple teams. High-profile stars, including quarterbacks and skill position players, experienced injuries that could have significant implications on their teams’ fortunes moving forward.
Quarterback Concerns
At the forefront of these setbacks is Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who sustained a concussion during Thursday's game. This marks at least the third confirmed brain injury of his career, putting his long-term health squarely in focus once again. The Dolphins have placed Tagovailoa on injured reserve, sidelining him until at least Week 8. The impact of his absence as the team's leader and playmaker will be closely scrutinized.
Running Back Woes
Tyjae Spears of the Tennessee Titans injured his ankle in the second half against the New York Jets, leaving his status day-to-day. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers placed MarShawn Lloyd on injured reserve after he sustained an ankle injury during their game against the Indianapolis Colts. Both teams will need to assess how to adjust their ground game strategy in the upcoming weeks.
The Kansas City Chiefs' offensive plans took a hit as Isiah Pacheco left the field on crutches and in a walking boot after injuring his ankle against the Bengals. Pacheco has been placed on injured reserve and will miss at least four games, a significant blow to the Chiefs' running attack. Conversely, an MRI confirmed that Joe Mixon’s ankle injury wasn’t severe, sparing the Bengals from another major setback.
Wide Receiver Setbacks
The wide receiver position saw its share of casualties as well. Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings exited the game against the 49ers with a thigh bruise. He sought to reassure fans, stating, "He'll be fine." Meanwhile, Cooper Kupp of the Los Angeles Rams suffered an ankle injury in the first half against the Arizona Cardinals and was later seen in a walking boot. Kupp is expected to miss extended time, adding to the Rams’ challenges.
The San Francisco 49ers will also be without Deebo Samuel for at least a couple of weeks due to a calf injury. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed this timeline, emphasizing the team’s cautious approach to Samuel’s recovery. The Philadelphia Eagles were without A.J. Brown for "Monday Night Football" due to a hamstring injury, further chipping away at the team's offensive arsenal.
Season-Ending Injuries
Some players were not as fortunate with their diagnoses. David Bell of the Cleveland Browns dislocated his hip and is set for season-ending surgery. The Browns have placed him on injured reserve, marking a disappointing halt to his campaign.
Also facing season-ending absences, Ja'Whaun Bentley suffered a torn pectoral muscle and has been ruled out for the remainder of the year. This injury leaves a significant hole in the Patriots’ defense, impacting their linebacker depth and on-field leadership.
Defensive Setbacks
On the defensive side, injuries continued to mount. Vita Vea of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was diagnosed with an MCL sprain following a knee injury against the Lions, bringing uncertainty to his availability in the coming games. DeForest Buckner of the Indianapolis Colts faced an apparent leg/ankle injury against the Packers. While X-rays came back negative, an MRI will determine the severity of Buckner’s ankle sprain, crucial for the Colts' defensive front.
Additional defensive players affected include B.J. Hill of the Bengals, who sustained a hamstring injury, and C.J. Mosley of the Jets with a foot injury. Jerome Baker of the Dolphins and Jermaine Johnson II also joined the list, with speculation that Johnson might have torn his Achilles, a notoriously long-term injury.
Utility and Special Teams Impacts
The injuries weren't limited to starters and marquee names. The New Orleans Saints saw Taysom Hill exit with a chest injury against the Cowboys. His versatility is unmatched, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt across various phases of the game. Evan Engram of the New York Giants sat out Week 2 due to a hamstring issue, removing a key target from the Giants' passing game.
As teams prepare for Week 3, they face the daunting challenge of adjusting their rosters and game plans to accommodate these significant losses. The full impact of this injury-laden week will unfold in the crucial games to follow, as teams strive to navigate through this early-season adversity.
