As NFL teams approach Preseason Week 3, several significant injuries are raising concerns about player availability for the regular season. Among those affected, running back Joe Mixon’s injury status remains uncertain, prompting questions about his readiness for the Houston Texans’ opening games. This report provides a detailed update on Mixon and other key players facing health challenges as the preseason progresses.
Current Status of Quarterbacks Ahead of the Season
Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams is dealing with a back injury that worsened after he was unable to throw during a recent session, putting his participation in the early part of the season at serious risk. Meanwhile, Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders missed Preseason Week 2 due to an oblique injury but is optimistic about returning for the team’s final preseason game, following a strong performance in Week 1.
Running Backs Face Varied Injury Challenges
The running back group features several players contending with injuries that could impact their usage in Week 1. De’Von Achane of the Miami Dolphins is managing a soft tissue injury considered minor, with expectations for a timely recovery. Kenneth Walker III of the Seattle Seahawks has returned to practice and is likely to remain available barring any setbacks.
Houston Texans’ Joe Mixon is increasingly unlikely to be ready for the season opener due to his foot injury, which might result in him starting the year on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. In Mixon’s absence, Nick Chubb and Dameon Pierce appear poised to lead the Texans’ backfield.
Najee Harris of the Los Angeles Chargers has resumed limited football activities after an eye injury, though his role may be diminished. Rookie Omarion Hampton is expected to see more opportunities, possibly overtaking Harris on the depth chart. Tennessee Titans’ Tyjae Spears contends with a high-ankle sprain, an injury that often requires multiple weeks to heal, potentially sidelining him for the season start and giving Tony Pollard a bigger role early on.
Rachaad White from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is managing a groin injury that, while not deemed serious, will be closely monitored. This situation could enhance Bucky Irving’s value in PPR (points per reception) leagues. Green Bay Packers’ MarShawn Lloyd remains a question mark due to a recurring hamstring issue, threatening his availability as Josh Jacobs’ backup.
Miami Dolphins running back Alexander Mattison suffered a neck injury requiring surgery, ending his season before it began. This development opens space for players like Jaylen Wright or Ollie Gordon II to establish themselves in Miami’s offense. Baltimore Ravens’ Keaton Mitchell is sidelined with an undisclosed injury, likely minor, but may fall further behind Justice Hill on the team’s depth chart.
Wide Receiver Injuries Could Influence Early Season Lineups
Several wide receivers are coping with injuries that may delay their contributions in the early part of the season. Minnesota Vikings’ Justin Jefferson continues to miss training camp due to a hamstring injury, though officials remain hopeful about his Week 1 availability. New York Giants’ Malik Nabers is managing back tightness, categorized as normal summer wear, causing little immediate concern.
Philadelphia Eagles’ AJ Brown is currently out of practice with a hamstring injury, with unclear status on its severity or potential setbacks. Jacksonville Jaguars’ Travis Hunter, dealing with an upper-body injury, is not expected to miss regular-season action, signaling an encouraging outlook despite his current absence.
Indianapolis Colts’ Josh Downs is sidelined with a hamstring injury as well, though the team’s quarterback situation may limit his impact regardless of his fitness. Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin continues to battle an ankle injury sustained in 2024, with chances leaning toward him missing the season opener. Similarly, Bradon Aiyuk of the San Francisco 49ers remains out recovering from an ACL injury, anticipating a return around Week 6.
Jayden Reed of the Green Bay Packers has been seen in a walking boot, casting doubt on his readiness for the start of the season. Another Buccaneers player, Jalen McMillan, suffered a neck injury that appears serious but is not expected to be season-ending. Rookie Tory Horton of the Seattle Seahawks is handling an ankle injury but is likely to be ready by Week 1.
Progress and Setbacks Among Tight Ends
Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta is expected to miss some time due to an undisclosed injury. Despite this, there is not substantial concern that his absence will extend into the regular season, suggesting a timeline for his return before the games begin.
Implications for Team Strategies and Fantasy Football
The accumulation of injuries across important skill positions is shaping how teams finalize their rosters and game plans for Week 1. Joe Mixon’s injury is particularly impactful for the Houston Texans, as his potential absence places greater responsibility on teammates Nick Chubb and Dameon Pierce. Travis Hunter’s injury status reflects cautious optimism for the Jaguars, while others like Alexander Mattison face season-ending situations that could alter team depth charts significantly.
These preseason injury developments also affect fantasy football strategies, with players such as Bucky Irving and Omarion Hampton likely to see increased opportunities reflected in their fantasy value. Monitoring the recovery progress of top receivers and running backs remains essential for both teams and fantasy managers as the NFL season approaches.