NFL Injury Report 2024, Injuries are the great equalizer in the NFL, capable of derailing championship aspirations before the season even begins. As we approach the 2024 campaign, several high-profile players are battling significant injuries that could keep them sidelined for Week 1. This comprehensive 1,500+ word breakdown examines three star players at risk of missing opening week, analyzes their recovery timelines, and identifies which under-the-radar players stand to benefit most from their absence.
The Importance of Monitoring NFL Injuries
Before we dive into specific cases, let’s examine why tracking preseason injuries is crucial:
✅ Fantasy Football Implications – Starter injuries create immediate value for backups
✅ Betting Market Impact – Odds shift dramatically when stars are ruled out
✅ Team Playoff Outlook – Losing key players early can alter entire seasons
Now, let’s examine the three biggest injury situations to monitor as Week 1 approaches.
1. Aaron Rodgers (QB, New York Jets) – Achilles Recovery Timeline
Current Injury Status
The 40-year-old future Hall of Famer continues his rehab from the torn Achilles that ended his 2023 season after just four snaps. While Rodgers has been participating in limited drills, recent reports suggest the Jets may take a cautious approach.
Key Concerns
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Limited Mobility – Achilles injuries notoriously sap explosiveness
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Preseason Reps – Hasn’t taken live game hits in over a year
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Jets’ Playoff Hopes – Team can’t afford to rush him back
Week 1 Projection
60% chance to play – Likely a game-time decision
Who Benefits?
Tyrod Taylor becomes an intriguing streaming QB option if Rodgers sits. The veteran has 53 career starts and knows OC Nathaniel Hackett’s system well.
For the latest Jets injury updates, visit NFL News
2. Nick Chubb (RB, Cleveland Browns) – Gruesome Knee Rehab
Current Injury Status
The four-time Pro Bowler suffered one of the most horrific knee injuries in recent memory last September, tearing multiple ligaments. While Chubb has made remarkable progress, the Browns have been extremely vague about his Week 1 status.
Key Concerns
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Multiple Surgeries – Required two procedures to repair damage
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Physical Running Style – Will he trust his knee in contact situations?
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Jerome Ford’s Emergence – Backup looked capable in 2023
Week 1 Projection
40% chance to play – Likely starts season on PUP list
Who Benefits?
Jerome Ford would immediately become an RB2 with three-down upside. Pierre Strong would handle change-of-pace duties.
3. Mark Andrews (TE, Baltimore Ravens) – Ankle Complications
Current Injury Status
The All-Pro tight end suffered a severe ankle injury in Week 11 last season and reportedly experienced setbacks in his recovery this summer. The Ravens have been unusually quiet about his status.
Key Concerns
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Lamar’s Security Blanket – 34% of Jackson’s red zone TDs go to Andrews
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New OC Concerns – Todd Monken may feature WRs more heavily
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Isaiah Likely’s Emergence – Backup shined in Andrews’ absence last year
Week 1 Projection
50% chance to play – Could be limited if active
Who Benefits?
Isaiah Likely becomes a top-8 TE if Andrews misses time. The third-year pro averaged 14.3 yards per catch in 2023.
For breaking Ravens updates, check NFL News
Injury Impact Analysis: Fantasy & Betting
Fantasy Football Fallout
| Player | Replacement | Fantasy Upside |
|---|---|---|
| Rodgers | Tyrod Taylor | QB2 streamer |
| Chubb | Jerome Ford | RB2 with RB1 weeks |
| Andrews | Isaiah Likely | Top-8 TE |
Betting Market Adjustments
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Jets win total drops from 9.5 to 8 if Rodgers sits
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Browns become underdogs in Week 1 vs Dallas without Chubb
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Ravens TD props shift to Zay Flowers if Andrews is out
Preventative Measures Teams Are Taking
NFL organizations have implemented several strategies to avoid preseason injuries:
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Modified Practice Schedules – More walkthroughs, fewer full-contact sessions
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Advanced Recovery Tech – Cryotherapy, hyperbaric chambers becoming standard
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Preseason Restrictions – Stars rarely play more than 1-2 series
Historical Perspective: Week 1 Injury Comebacks
Examining how similar injuries have healed in recent years:
| Player | Injury | Missed Games | Post-Injury Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dalvin Cook (2021) | Shoulder | 0 | 1,159 rush yards |
| Cooper Kupp (2023) | Ankle | 0 | 92 catches |
| J.K. Dobbins (2022) | ACL | 2 | 4.7 YPC |
This data suggests modern recovery protocols help stars return faster – but not always at 100%.
Read More: NFL Training Camp 2024: 5 Surprising Standouts Who Will DOMINATE the Season
Final Verdict: Prepare Your Fantasy Teams & Bets Accordingly
NFL Injury Report 2024, While all three stars could theoretically suit up Week 1, smart fantasy managers and bettors will:
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Handcuff Jerome Ford in drafts
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Monitor Ravens TE reports daily
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Have a QB backup plan in AFC East leagues
The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint. Losing a star Week 1 doesn’t doom your team – but failing to prepare for these scenarios might.
For real-time injury updates as Week 1 approaches, bookmark NFL News
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