The second week of the 2024 NFL season was riddled with injuries that could significantly impact the trajectory of several teams. As franchises grapple with the fallout, the focus remains on the recovery timelines and the strategic adjustments teams will need to make moving forward.
Significant Injuries in Week 2
In a harrowing incident for the Miami Dolphins, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa sustained a concussion during Thursday's game. This marks at least the third confirmed brain injury of the young quarterback’s career. As a precaution, the Dolphins have placed Tagovailoa on injured reserve, sidelining him until at least Week 8. The team and their fans are undoubtedly concerned about the long-term implications for Tagovailoa’s health and career.
Tyjae Spears of the Tennessee Titans also found himself on the injury report after hurting his ankle in the second half of their match against the New York Jets. His status is currently day-to-day, leaving the Titans in limbo as they await further updates on his condition.
The Green Bay Packers were also affected, with MarShawn Lloyd suffering an ankle injury during their game against the Indianapolis Colts. The Packers have placed Lloyd on injured reserve, forcing the team to adjust their lineup and strategies accordingly.
Challenges for the Chiefs, Jaguars, and More
In another blow to a high-profile team, the Kansas City Chiefs’ running back Isiah Pacheco injured his ankle in the second half against the Bengals. Pacheco was seen leaving the stadium on crutches and in a walking boot. Subsequent evaluations led the Chiefs to place him on injured reserve, ensuring he will miss at least four games. This will test the Chiefs' depth at the running back position moving forward.
Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Jaguars will have to manage without Tank Bigsby, who sustained a shoulder injury against the Cleveland Browns. Bigsby was sidelined for the remainder of the game, and his status will be a significant concern for the coaching staff as they prepare for upcoming matches.
The Minnesota Vikings also faced a scare when star wide receiver Justin Jefferson exited the game against the 49ers with a thigh bruise/contusion. Despite initial concerns, Jefferson assured fans, “He’ll be fine,” as he was assisted off the field.
The Los Angeles Rams were not spared either, with Cooper Kupp suffering an ankle injury in the first half against the Arizona Cardinals. Kupp was later seen in a walking boot on his left foot/lower leg, and he is expected to miss extended time, a significant setback for the Rams' offense.
Recovery and Resilience
Deebo Samuel of the San Francisco 49ers is set to miss 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, indicating the importance of ensuring Samuel is fully fit before returning to the field.
Some other notable injuries include A.J. Brown of the Philadelphia Eagles, who missed "Monday Night Football" against the Falcons due to a hamstring injury, and David Bell of the Cleveland Browns, who dislocated his hip and is set for season-ending surgery. Bell was subsequently placed on injured reserve.
Taysom Hill of the New Orleans Saints exited with a chest injury against the Cowboys, while Evan Engram of the New York Giants sat out Week 2 due to a hamstring issue. Vita Vea of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sustained a knee injury in their match against the Lions, with the initial diagnosis pointing to an MCL sprain.
Further Evaluations Needed
DeForest Buckner of the Colts faced an apparent leg/ankle injury against the Packers, though X-rays came back negative. An MRI is set to determine the severity of Buckner’s ankle sprain.
The injury wave extended to the Bengals, with B.J. Hill sustaining a hamstring injury, and the Jets' C.J. Mosley suffering a foot injury. Additionally, Jerome Baker of the Dolphins sustained a hamstring issue, with Jermaine Johnson II appearing to have torn his Achilles.
Ja'Whaun Bentley also suffered a significant injury, tearing his pectoral muscle, which rules him out for the season.
The cascade of injuries in Week 2 has left teams scrambling for solutions. As the affected players embark on their recovery journeys, the resilience and adaptability of each franchise will be tested in the coming weeks.