Breakout WRs – Identifying the studs
This is a list of all the relevant WRs from each WR class over the past 7 years, and the ones highlighted in green have a top 24 finish (PPR) to their name. As you can see from the 2017-2021 classes, there are at least 4 top 25 WRs in each class. The 2019 and 2020 draft classes were loaded, and currently make up the majority of the top 10. From 2024’s current top 10 in ADP (Lamb, Hill, Jefferson, Chase, ARSB, AJB, Puka, Wilson, Adams, and Marvin Harrison Jr) 7 were drafted from 2019-2023. The exceptions include Tyreek Hill (2016), Davante Adams (2014) and Marvin Harrison Jr. (2024). Only 13 rookie WRs finished in the top 24 in their rookie season over the past 7 years, see chart below. All but 3 finished WR13+. The exceptions: Puka Nacua, Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson. The 3rd year breakouts seem to be common. The following WRs broke out in their 3rd season: Cooper Kupp (WR24, WR51, WR5), Chris Godwin (WR67, WR29, WR2), Deebo Samuel (WR32, WR96, WR3), Diontae Johnson (WR41, WR21, WR8) Hunter Renfrow (WR54, WR60, WR11), CeeDee Lamb (WR22, WR19, WR5), Brandon Aiyuk (WR35, WR35, WR15), Tee Higgins (WR28, WR24, WR18) Jerry Jeudy (WR47, WR85, WR22) and Nico Collins (WR86, WR77, WR12) The most likely 3rd year breakout candidates in 2024 are Garrett Wilson (WR21, WR26), Chris Olave (WR25, WR16) and Drake London (WR21, WR37) There are a couple of other players that have an outside chance, including: Christian Watson (WR41, WR68), George Pickens (WR39, WR30) Jameson Williams (WR154, WR82), Romeo Doubs (WR72, WR36), Jahan Dotson (WR51, WR56), Treylon Burks (WR78, WR123), Wan’Dale Robinson (WR115, WR53), Khalil Shakir (WR130, WR61) and John Metchie III (N/A, WR138) The following have potential to break out in their 4th year: Rashod Bateman (WR69, WR112, WR85), Elijah Moore (WR49, WR81, WR54), Josh Palmer (WR75, WR37, WR65) There are about 19 rookie WRs that could finish in the top 24, but realistically only about 6. Those names are: Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, Xavier Worthy, Ladd McConkey, Keon Coleman and Brian Thomas Jr. Finished Top 24 2017 (5) 2018 (6) 2019 (7) 2020 (7) 2021 (5) 2022 (2) 2023 (2) 2024 Cooper Kupp D.J. Moore A.J. Brown CeeDee Lamb Ja’Marr Chase Garrett Wilson Puka Nacua Chris Godwin Calvin Ridley Deebo Samuel Justin Jefferson Amon-Ra St. Brown Chris Olave Jordan Addison Mike Williams Christian Kirk D.K. Metcalf Brandon Aiyuk Jaylen Waddle JuJu Smith-Schuster Courtlard Sutton Diontae Johnson Tee Higgins DeVonta Smith Kenny Golladay D.J. Chark Marquise Brown Michael Pittman Jr. Nico Collins Michael Gallup Terry McLaurin Chase Claypool Hunter Renfrow Jerry Jeudy Had fantasy impact but never a top 24 season: Corey Davis Marquez Valdes-Scantling Mecole Hardman Henry Ruggs III Kadarius Toney Drake London Jaxon Smith-Njigba Marvin Harrison Jr. Curtis Samuel Tre’Quan Smith Parris Campbell Gabriel Davis Rashod Bateman Christian Watson Quentin Johnston Malik Nabers Zay Jones Justin Watson Darius Slayton Laviska Shenault Jr. Elijah Moore Geoge Pickens Zay Flowers Rome Odunze Josh Reynolds Van Jefferson Rondale Moore Jameson Williams Jonathan Mingo Brian Thomas Jr. Mack Hollins Gabriel Davis Josh Palmer Romeo Doubs Jayden Reed Xavier Worthy Noah Brown Darnell Mooney Jahan Dotson Rashee Rice Ricky Pearsall Donovan Peoples-Jones Treylon Burks Marvin Mims Jr. Xavier Legette Wan’Dale Robinson Tank Dell Keon Coleman Khalil Shakir Dontayvion Wicks Ladd McConkey John Metchie III Josh Downs Ja’Lynn Polk Demario Douglas Adonai Mitchell Jalin Hyatt Malachi Corley Cedric Tillman Jermain Burton Michael Wilson Roman Wilson Tre Tucker Jalen McMillan Tyler Scott Luke McCaffrey Troy Franklin Javon Baker Devontez Walker Finished Top 24 in rookie season Players Class of Rookie Season Finish Puka Nacua 2023 WR4 Ja’Marr Chase 2021 WR5 Justin Jefferson 2020 WR6 Jaylen Waddle 2021 WR13 Juju Smith-Schuster 2017 WR20 Amon-Ra St. Brown 2021 WR21 A.J. Brown 2019 WR21 Garrett Wilson 2022 WR21 CeeDee Lamb 2020 WR22 Calvin Ridley 2018 WR22 Jordan Addison 2023 WR23 Chase Claypool 2020 WR24 Cooper Kupp 2017 WR24 Total # of WRs drafted Total # of WRs drafted 2017 32 2018 34 2019 28 2020 35 2021 35 2022 28 2023 33 225 5.7%
News & Notes – Week ending July 28
Here are some thoughts on various players as training camp begins, some players are holding out, others are injured and some are coming back from injury. Aaron Rodgers has returned and has a noticeable size difference in his left calf, which is the side he tore his Achilles. Not overly concerning. He doesn’t rush anymore, but he still has the arm strength and elite mental skills to help Garrett Wilson become a top five monster. Several of the San Francisco 49ers are already including Ricky Pearsall, Isaac Guerendo and Jacob Cowing. I expect Pearsall to be back next week, but Guerendo and Cowing could miss a couple weeks which will set their learning and timelines back. Brandon Aiyuk is holding out and I have no idea how this situation is going to play out. People are sleeping on Keenan Allen. He’s primed for a MONSTER 2024 season as he will always be open and Caleb Williams will look for him early and often. Forget the age, go get him, reach for him if you have to as your WR2. OC Kellen Moore made CeeDee Lamb a beast in 2022 and Keenan Allen in 2023, now it’s DeVonta Smith’s turn. Expect a ton of pre-snap motions and Hurts looking for Smith. Smith could put up WR1 numbers but is priced as a WR2. He has yet to miss a game due to injury in his first 3 years. Garrett Wilson is going to challenge for the WR1 overall if he and Rodgers both stay healthy. Wilson is elite in success rate versus man, zone and press coverage. He ran the most routes in 2023 (666), he was 4th in targets (168), and 7th in target share (30.1%). Now he has Aaron Rodgers throwing to him. Whatever the season-long prop TD bet is, take the over. I am. I’m still not sure what to make of this Bengals backfield. With Mixon now in Houston, it appears that Zack Moss will split/fight with Chase Brown for touches. Moss has struggled with injuries so don’t spend too much on him. It’s a wait and see for me right now. I was genuinely astonished when Troy Franklin kept falling during the draft. He is one of only 3 rookie WRs to average 3.00+ YPRR in a college season and declare early. The other two are Marvin Harrison Jr., and Malik Nabers. He’s essentially free and playing with his college QB, so the rapport is a given. Courtland Sutton should be the WR1, and Marvin Mims Jr. the WR2, but Franklin only really has to battle Josh Reynolds for targets. Perfect late round add with loads of upside. I have zero interest in Zamir White. Not only has he torn his ACL twice, but in the 4 games he started in 2023 they all came against teams ranked 21st or lower in run defense DVOA (℅ @GuruFantasyWrld). He’s nothing special, will be volume dependent and I’d rather have guys with higher upside. If Andy Reid lines up Xavier Worthy in the X spot for the Chiefs, watch out. In college Worthy ran 48% of his routes at the X position and his YPRR was 2.98 and he had a 30.4% target PRR. On all other routes his rates were 1.71 and 26%. Worthy also has the 2nd best YPRR against press coverage out of all the WRs drafted in 1st round since 2017, second only to Devonta Smith. Info courtesy of @Jagibbs_23. He will be joining Rashee Rice, Hollywood Brown, as well as Travis Kelce. This Chiefs offense might be the best we’ve ever seen from Mahomes so far. Yes that even includes the Tyreek Hill years. Speaking of Rashee Rice, there are rumblings that his initial court date isn’t until December. If that’s the case, the NFL is unlikely to punish him in 2024, as I think it’s unlikely they penalize him without knowing the full extent of the crime. He is the WR1 in this offense and is currently being discounted because of the unknown of possible suspension. Reap the rewards and secure him as a WR3 with WR1 upside. People are sleeping on Curtis Samuel. His ADP is currently at WR49, a WR4, but he’s really only competing with Khalil Shakir and rookie Keon Coleman for WR targets. Yes Dalton Kincaid, Dawson Knox and MVS are there too. He will take handoffs out of the backfield and was grossly missed in Washington. Would not be surprised if he finished as the WR1 for the Bills this year. Jordan Addison has been involved with a couple different situations with the law since arriving in the NFL. His most recent DUI arrest, I would not be surprised if he gets suspended a couple games. I was already off him because I expect some regression, but now he’s on my Do Not Draft list. I’ve been keeping a tally of Injuries that you can. follow along with on the website, click the tab ‘Injury Report.’
The Rise of Achilles Tears in the NFL
Written by: Jesse Morse, MD, CAQSM www.TheInjuryExpertz.com July 26, 2024 There has been a significant rise in Achilles tears over the past 15 years in the NFL, accentuated by two of the top quarterbacks, Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins, both suffering this injury in 2023. The Achilles tendon is capable of handling up to 10 times the body weight during explosive movements. There is an area of poor blood flow about 2-6 cm from the insertion in the calcaneus, the narrowest segment of the tendon, and that is where most ruptures occur. The rupture often happens due to acute loading during acceleration or deceleration. This article attempts to answer two different questions: Have Achilles Tendon Injuries significantly increased to unacceptably high incidence levels in the NFL? What are the underlying causes of the high incidence levels of Achilles Tendon ruptures in the NFL? I will be referencing an article that was published earlier in 2024 with some solid reference points and research, but also adding my opinion. For the general public, a study from Finland completed in 2022 revealed a significant increase in the incidence of Achilles Tendon Ruptures (ATRs), from a rate of 2.1 per 100 person-years in the late 1990s, to 21.5 per 100 person-years as of 2019. That’s a 10x increase in about 30 years! There is some speculation that one of the primary causes of this is the increase of activity of adults in their 30s playing racket sports, soccer and basketball, but this is likely a multifactorial issue secondary to oral antibiotics, steroids, diabetes, diet related. Now let’s apply this change to the NFL. The rate of Achilles Tendon Ruptures (ATRs) has doubled from 0.341 injuries per 10,000 athlete-exposures in 2009 to 0.731 in 2016. The COVID-19 pandemic further contributed to this rise, with a marked increase in ATR cases during 2020 and 2021. There were a total of 22 NFL players that suffered Achilles tears during the 2023 season alone! From 1980 to 2001 there were approximately 4 Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) per NFL season. From 1997 to 2002 there were approximately 5 Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) per year. The research conducted by Hewett et al concluded that a large increase in the prevalence of Achilles tendon ruptures in the NFL in the season following the 2011 season lock-out, especially in the preseason, in which 12 ruptures occurred. An article from Yang et al demonstrated that the overall return to play (RTP) rate from an Achilles tear in the NFL is 61.3%. Despite initial thoughts, risk factors like age, number of prior seasons, position type, and draft round status did not significantly affect the RTP when evaluated with Kaplan-Meier analysis. For those players that were able to return, the performance only in the season immediately following injury appears to be affected. I actually disagree with this finding specifically for running backs, as we have seen this position affected, performance-wise, the most by Achilles tendon ruptures. Several players (RBs) that have suffered an Achilles tear have never returned to preinjury form, including James Robinson, Cam Akers, and Marlon Mack. Between 2009-2014 there was a significantly increased prevalence of Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) to between 13 and 16 ruptures per year. This is consistent with a study by Krill et al, which showed that from 2010-11 to 2016-17 there were a total of 109 Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs), that is an average of 15.5 per year. Since then, based on reporting on social media over the last 3 seasons have averaged 17 Achilles tendon ruptures per year, culminating with the 2023 season having from what I can tell is the highest single-season ever of 22 Achilles tendon ruptures. There is no doubt that the prevalence of ATRs in the NFL has increased between 300-500% over the past 30 years. The study from Hewett et al concluded that there are four reasons that most likely account for the significant rise in Achilles tendon ruptures in the NFL. Based on evidence-based hypotheses and historic injury risk modeling, these are the four most likely reasons for the rise in order of relative potential predictive power: Demographic and anthropometric factors are always important and come out of nearly every injury risk profile assessment: age, activity level, height, body mass, and BMI may play significant roles. With the exception of age, all are increasing in the NFL. These are examples of non-modifiable factors. Simply put, guys are bigger, fast, and stronger than ever before, but their tendons are not. The absence of sufficient preparatory training, such as heavy eccentrics. This has likely increased due to the new collective bargaining agreements between the NFL and NFLPA, which restrict team access to players during the off-season. Surface (newer generation rubberized turf versus grass) shoe, rigid ankle taping, and bracing. In my opinion this is a huge factor. Grass ‘gives way’ when a player wearing cleats cuts on it, thereby dissipating the energy through the grass. With the introduction of rubberized turf, the molecular structure of the rubber does not allow for the energy to dissipate and cut the rubber like it would with grass. Therefore that energy gets displaced throughout the joint and soft tissues, leading to microtears. Repetitive microtears eventually lead to weakness of the ligaments and tendons. The use of anabolic and corticosteroids. The unknown and upregulated use of these drugs is unknown but have likely increased. While cortisone is not as commonly used as previously, some physicians are still willing to inject this, which weakens the surrounding tissue, thereby increasing the risk of future rupture. There are other potential contributors that are possible as well, including compensation as a result of other lower extremity injuries that the players have suffered. A study by Krill et al demonstrated that foot injuries to the contralateral limb previously may have contributed to subsequent rupture of the Achilles tendon. This is what we saw with J.K. Dobbins, who tore his left ACL in 2021, then his right Achilles in 2023. Surgical treatment for
Current NFL Player Injury Updates: Insights and Implications
In the world of professional football, player injuries are an unfortunate yet inevitable part of the game. Understanding the nature and severity of these injuries can offer insights into the recovery timelines and potential impacts on player performance. This article provides a comprehensive update on recent injuries sustained by current NFL players, offering a detailed look at each case. Name Date Injury Details Concern George Kittle 12/3/2023 Core Played through core muscle injury that required offseason surgery. Mild Greg Dulcich 1/8/24 Foot Dulcich has been dealing with swelling to his foot Moderate Tank Dell 4/27/2024 Leg Dell was involved in a shooting, he suffered a minor wound injury, likely flesh Mild Rome Odunze 5/13/24 Hamstring Hamstring tightness at rookie OTAs. Mild BIjan Robinson 5/20/2024 Ankle Ankle sprain, no details Mild Kyren Williams 5/21/2024 Foot Foot issue, no details Moderate Josh Jacobs 5/21/2024 Hamstring Recently suffered hamstring but was participating in OTAs Mild Tucker Kraft 5/21/2024 Pec Recently suffered pec tendon injury, likely grade 1 vs. 2 Moderate Xavier Worthy 5/22/2024 Hamstring Hamstring injury, unknown severity Mild Michael Pittman Jr. 5/22/2024 Knee Banged knees during OTAs, likely bone bruise Mild Luke Schoonmaker 5/22/2024 Hamstring Foot Shoulder Recently suffered hamstring but was participating in OTAs Injury prior to 2023 season Underwent shoulder surgery earlier in offseason Moderate Malaci Corley 5/29/24 Ankle Limping around but sounds like it is nothing to be concerned about Mild Breece Hall 5/29/24 Undisclosed Working in the rehab area during OTAs. Mild Audric Estime 5/30/24 Knee Reportedly underwent a ‘small’ menisectomy to likely address a small meniscal tear. Moderate George Kittle – Core Muscle Injury (December 3, 2023) George Kittle, the dynamic tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, played through a core muscle injury with roughly about 10 weeks to go in the 2023 season. Despite the discomfort, Kittle’s performance remained commendable, underscoring his resilience and dedication. The injury required offseason surgery, indicating that while significant enough to warrant surgical intervention, it is not expected to have long-term repercussions. Top 5-8 potential continues to remain a strong possibility for Kittle heading into 2024. Greg Dulcich – Foot Swelling (January 8, 2024) Greg Dulcich, the promising tight end for the Denver Broncos, has been dealing with foot swelling since early January 2024. This moderate injury has raised concerns about his ability to participate fully in training and preseason activities. Foot injuries can be particularly troublesome for football players due to the constant pressure and movement required in their positions. This is on top of the recurrent hamstring injuries that have plagued his NFL career so far. Dulcich has a ton of potential but needs to stay healthy in order to show what he can do on the field. Tank Dell – Leg Injury (April 27, 2024) Tank Dell, the wide receiver for the Houston Texans, was involved in a shooting incident, suffering a minor wound injury to his leg. Classified as mild, this flesh wound, while alarming, is not expected to impede his participation in the upcoming season. Mind you this was after his recovery from his season-ending ankle injury. Dell’s swift recovery will be crucial for the Texans, who are counting on his speed and agility on the field combining with Nico Collins and Stefon Diggs to serve as one of the best wide receiver groups in the NFL. Rome Odunze – Hamstring Tightness (May 13, 2024) During rookie OTAs, Rome Odunze experienced hamstring tightness. This mild injury is not uncommon in the early stages of intensive training. Proper rest and physiotherapy are essential to ensure that this tightness does not develop into a more severe strain. Odunze was able to return to the field a couple days ago which tells me this was likely a mild hamstring strain but it is definitely something worth monitoring and could bother him again in the future. Bijan Robinson – Ankle Sprain (May 20, 2024) Bijan Robinson, a potential top 3 fantasy running back, suffered an ankle sprain in May 2024. Classified as mild, the injury is not expected to sideline him for an extended period. Ankle sprains, if managed correctly with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), typically heal well. Robinson’s quick return to form will be crucial for maintaining his explosive playing style. Kyren Williams – Foot Issue (May 21, 2024) Kyren Williams, a talented running back with a history of soft tissue injuries, is dealing with a new foot issue that I deem to be moderate. The specifics of the injury have not been disclosed, but the classification suggests it requires careful management to prevent escalation. Foot injuries can severely impact a running back’s performance, making it essential for Williams to get this properly addressed so he is ready for the 2024 preseason. Josh Jacobs – Hamstring Injury (May 21, 2024) Josh Jacobs, the former Las Vegas Raiders and now Green Bay Packers’ running back, recently sustained a mild hamstring injury but has been participating in OTAs. Hamstring injuries can be tricky due to their tendency to recur if not fully healed. I fully expect him to be fine by the time preseason arises but it’s noteworthy. There’s a good chance he is in a RBBC this year in Green Bay. Tucker Kraft – Pectoral Tendon Injury (May 21, 2024) Tucker Kraft, the Green Bay tight end, suffered a pectoral tendon injury, likely between grade 1 and 2, classifying it as moderate. Pectoral injuries can limit a player’s ability to block and catch, essential skills for a tight end. Kraft’s recovery will involve targeted strength training and physiotherapy to ensure a complete recovery without compromising his functional performance. Xavier Worthy – Hamstring Injury (May 22, 2024) Xavier Worthy, a wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs, is dealing with a hamstring injury of unknown severity. Given the pivotal role of speed and agility in his game, hamstring health is critical. Don’t freak out about this yet but this is definitely an injury to make note of. Michael Pittman Jr. – Knee Injury (May 22, 2024)
Key Players on Short-Term IR: 2023 NFL Season
Table of Contents The 2023 NFL season has been a roller coaster, marked by intense competition, stunning plays, and unfortunately, numerous injuries. Several key players were sidelined, placed on Short-Term Injured Reserve (IR) as they recovered. These injuries not only affected the players’ careers but also had significant impacts on their respective teams. Here’s a detailed look at each of these players, the injuries they faced, and the games they missed. Quarter Back Name Team Injury Details Game Missed Kyler Murray ARI Post-ACL Returning from ACL. 9 Kyler Murray, ARI Kyler Murray, the dynamic quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, spent the beginning of the 2023 season on Short-Term IR as he continued his recovery from an ACL injury. The recovery process was lengthy, causing him to miss nine games. Murray’s absence was keenly felt by the Cardinals, as they struggled to find consistency on offense without their star QB. His return was highly anticipated, not just for his playmaking abilities but also for the leadership he brings to the field. Running back Name Team Injury Details Game Missed Jonathan Taylor IND Ankle/ Contract Ankle vs. Contract issues. 3 Kyren Williams LAR Ankle Likely high-ankle sprain 4 James Conner ARI Knee Knee, no details. 4.5 Jamaal Williams NO Hamstring Knee, no details. 4 Damien Harris BUF Neck, Concussion Concussion, Cervical injury 11 Jeff Wilson Jr. MIA Unknown Midsection, Finger 6 Keaton Mitchell BAL Shoulder No details. Shoulder dislocation vs. Grade 2-3 AC sprain 6 Jonathan Taylor, IND Jonathan Taylor, the Indianapolis Colts’ star running back, found himself on Short-Term IR due to a combination of an ankle injury and contract disputes. This dual issue caused him to miss three games early in the season. The Colts’ running game faltered without Taylor, highlighting his importance to their offensive scheme. His absence underscored the precarious balance between player health and contract negotiations in professional sports. Kyren Williams, LAR Kyren Williams, a promising running back for the Los Angeles Rams, suffered a high-ankle sprain that sidelined him for four games. This injury was particularly frustrating for the Rams, as Williams had shown significant potential early in the season. High-ankle sprains are notoriously slow to heal, and Williams’ recovery was closely monitored. The Rams missed his versatility and explosive running during his time on IR, and when he returned he picked up exactly where he left off. James Conner, ARI James Conner, the Arizona Cardinals’ reliable running back, was placed on Short-Term IR with a knee injury. An absence of 4+ games is pretty regular for him. Although specific details about the injury were scarce, Conner missed four and a half games. His physical running style and ability to find the end zone were sorely missed by the Cardinals’ offense. Conner’s absence highlighted the depth issues in Arizona’s backfield and the importance of his veteran presence. Jamaal Williams, NO Jamaal Williams, more of a depth piece rather than a key running back for the New Orleans Saints, was sidelined with a grade 2 hamstring injury. Hamstring injuries can be particularly tricky, requiring careful management to avoid re-injury. Williams missed four games, a period during which the Saints had to rely on their backup running backs. Damien Harris, BUF Damien Harris, running back for the Buffalo Bills, experienced a severe neck and concussion injury that led to him being placed on Short-Term IR. Harris missed eleven games, making it one of the more extended absences on this list. His injury raised concerns about player safety and the long-term effects of concussions in the NFL. The Bills missed his physicality and veteran experience in their backfield, and Harris has since announced his retirement from the NFL. Jeff Wilson Jr., MIA Jeff Wilson Jr., a versatile running back for the Miami Dolphins, faced a mysterious midsection and finger injury that saw him miss a total of six games. The lack of detailed information about his injury left fans and analysts speculating about his condition. Wilson’s absence impacted the Dolphins’ offensive rhythm, as his dual-threat capability as a runner and receiver out of the backfield was hard to replace. Keaton Mitchell, BAL Keaton Mitchell, running back for the Baltimore Ravens, dealt with a shoulder injury that sidelined him for six games. While details were sparse, it was speculated that he might have suffered a shoulder dislocation or a severe AC sprain. Mitchell’s injury deprived the Ravens of a promising young talent, forcing them to adjust their offensive plans and rely more heavily on their depth at running back. Eventually Mitchell tore his ACL, causing him to miss the rest of the season. Wide Reciever Name Team Injury Details Game Missed Cooper Kupp LAR Hamstring Hamstring reinjury 8/31. 4 Justin Jefferson MIN Hamstring Hamstring, likely grade 2 8 Diontae Johnson PIT Hamstring Likely a grade 2 strain. 4 Tyquan Thornton NE Shoulder No details. Shoulder dislocation vs. Grade 2-3 AC sprain 5 Cooper Kupp, LAR Cooper Kupp, the standout wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, suffered a hamstring injury in early preseason, then a reinjury just before the season started, which led to him missing four games. Kupp’s absence was a significant blow to the Rams’ passing attack, as he is one of the most productive receivers in the league, leading to the emergence of Puka Nacua. Justin Jefferson, MIN Justin Jefferson, the Minnesota Vikings’ star wide receiver, was sidelined with a grade 2 hamstring injury that kept him out for eight games during the middle of the season. Jefferson’s injury was a major setback for the Vikings’ offense, as he is one of the league’s premier playmakers. His absence tested the depth of the Vikings’ receiving corps and underscored the importance of maintaining player health through the grueling NFL season. Diontae Johnson, PIT Diontae Johnson, wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, suffered a hamstring strain, causing him to miss four games. Johnson’s quickness, reliable hands, and route-running skills were missed by the Steelers, who struggled to find consistency in their passing game without him. His injury was
Players Who Suffered Season-Ending Injuries in 2023 (Season-Ending Injured Reserve (IR))
Table of Contents The 2023 NFL season has been marked by numerous significant injuries, sidelining several key players and impacting their respective teams’ performances. This article provides a comprehensive look at players who were placed on Season-Ending Injured Reserve (IR) due to various injuries, detailing the nature of their injuries and the implications for their teams. Quarterbacks QB Name Team Injury Details Aaron Rodgers NYJ Achilles Left Achilles tear. ‘Speed bridge’ surgical technique Kirk Cousins MIN Achilles Right Achilles tear. Anthony Richardson IND Shoulder Right AC sprain Type III. Season-ending surgery. Aaron Rodgers (NYJ) – Achilles Aaron Rodgers, the star quarterback for the New York Jets, suffered a devastating left Achilles tear early in the season. The injury occurred during Rodgers first game as a Jet, leading to the implementation of a ‘speed bridge’ surgical technique to expedite recovery. This technique aims to enhance the healing process, but Rodgers’ season was over, leaving the Jets to have to deal with Zach Wilson who struggled as a viable replacement. Kirk Cousins (MIN) – Achilles Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback, Kirk Cousins, faced a similar fate as Aaron Rodgers, suffering a right Achilles tear. Cousins’ injury was a severe blow to the Vikings, who were relying heavily on his experience and leadership. Cousins was an ironman before this injury, having played 8 straight seasons playing at least 15 games. He was signed by the Atlanta Falcons in the offseason and now has an even more loaded offense than he had in Minnesota. Anthony Richardson (IND) – Shoulder Rookie sensation Anthony Richardson of the Indianapolis Colts had a promising start to his NFL career cut short by a right AC sprain Type III. This shoulder injury necessitated season-ending surgery. Richardson’s dynamic playing style and potential were sorely missed by the Colts, who had high hopes for their young quarterback. There’s a good chance he picks up exactly where he left off in 2024. Running Backs RB Name Team Injury Details Nick Chubb CLE Knee (ACL) Left MCL + partial ACL + meniscus. Nyheim Hines BUF Knee (ACL) Torn ACL (while on jetski) J.K. Dobbins BAL Achilles Season-ending Achilles tear. Marlon Mack ARI Achilles Season-ending Achilles tear. Evan Hull IND Knee Knee injury. Meniscal tear, requiring repair. Jonathan Williams WSH Unknown No details Nick Chubb (CLE) – Knee (ACL) Nick Chubb, the powerhouse running back for the Cleveland Browns, suffered one of the most gruesome injuries you will ever see. A catastrophic left knee injury, involving the MCL, partial ACL, and meniscus. Chubb’s injury was one of the most devastating from a fantasy-perspective of the entire season. It remains to be seen if he will be able to make his debut early in the season, or if it will be delayed. The other question is will Chubb look like his pre-injury self? More info to come as the offseason comes to a close. Nyheim Hines (BUF) – Knee (ACL) In an unusual accident, Buffalo Bills’ running back Nyheim Hines tore his ACL while on a jetski. The non-football injury was unexpected and sidelined Hines for the season, impacting the Bills’ depth at the running back position and their special teams unit where Hines was a key contributor. J.K. Dobbins (BAL) – Achilles J.K. Dobbins of the Baltimore Ravens suffered a season-ending Achilles tear, a year after . Dobbins was returning from an ACL tear. Achilles tears are dreadful injuries for running backs, and the majority of RBs who have suffered them have struggled to be effective again, including James Robinson and Cam Akers. Now he tries his luck with the Chargers continuing to serve with Gus Edwards. Marlon Mack (ARI) – Achilles Arizona Cardinals’ running back Marlon Mack also ended his season with an Achilles tear. Mack hasn’t been fantasy-relevant since 2019, as he has struggled with injuries in each of the past 4 years. Evan Hull (IND) – Knee Indianapolis Colts’ rookie running back Evan Hull sustained a knee injury involving a meniscal tear that required surgical repair. Hull’s promising start was abruptly halted, leaving the Colts’ running back depth in disarray and placing additional pressure on their offensive unit. Wide Receivers WR Name Team Injury Details Mike Williams LAC Knee (ACL) Torn L ACL. Possible MCL, meniscus Kendrick Bourne NA Knee (ACL) Torn right ACL. Ashton Dulin IND Knee (ACL) Torn ACL. Tim Patrick DEN Achilles Season-ending Achilles tear. Russell Gage TB Knee Non-contact knee injury. ACL? Mike Williams (LAC) – Knee (ACL) Mike Williams, a key wide receiver for the Los Angeles Chargers, tore his left ACL, with possible involvement of the MCL and meniscus. Williams’ injury was a significant blow to the Chargers’ passing attack, as he was one of their primary deep threats and a consistent performer. Kendrick Bourne (NE) – Knee (ACL) New England Patriots’ wide receiver Kendrick Bourne suffered a torn right ACL. Bourne, known for his versatility and reliability, left a noticeable void in the Patriots’ receiving corps. His injury forced the Patriots to adjust their offensive schemes and rely on less experienced receivers, which they struggled to do so. Ashton Dulin (IND) – Knee (ACL) Ashton Dulin of the Indianapolis Colts also fell victim to an ACL tear. Dulin’s role as a receiver and special teams contributor was crucial, and his absence disrupted the Colts’ offensive and special teams strategies. Tim Patrick (DEN) – Achilles Denver Broncos’ wide receiver Tim Patrick endured a season-ending Achilles tear. Patrick’s injury was particularly disheartening as he had previously missed the entire 2022 season with an ACL tear. His back-to-back season-ending injuries have cast a shadow over his career prospects. Returning to becoming fantasy-relevant is unlikely but let’s hope for the best. Russell Gage (TB) – Knee Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ wide receiver Russell Gage suffered a non-contact knee injury, suspected to be an ACL tear. Gage’s injury was a significant setback for the Buccaneers’ offense, which relied on his speed and route-running ability to stretch the field. Injury Trends and Impact The 2023 season has been marked by a high
