The NFL is facing a storm of injuries as we approach the halfway mark of the 2025 season, and some of its most exciting players are on the sidelines. It's a harsh reality that fans must contend with as star players like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka find themselves in recovery mode.
As we gear up for Week 7, it's critical to stay informed about injury news across the league. Since the season kicked off, injuries have become increasingly prevalent, impacting every team, especially the San Francisco 49ers. They’ve been particularly unlucky, suffering a significant blow with their usually reliable linebacker, Fred Warner, being ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a severe injury. Adding to the drama, during the Week 6 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Warner's teammate, rising star wideout Emeka Egbuka, exited early because of a hamstring issue.
The Indianapolis Colts also faced a staggering setback before even playing their game against the Arizona Cardinals. In a shocking twist, backup quarterback Anthony Richardson and cornerback Charvarius Ward sustained injuries during pregame warmups. These unforeseen events have undoubtedly altered the dynamics of the upcoming matches.
To put it into perspective, key players like David Njoku of the Cleveland Browns, Trey Hendrickson from the Cincinnati Bengals, and Marvin Harrison Jr. of the Arizona Cardinals also left their games prematurely due to various injuries. Below, we will delve into the significant injury updates from each team as we embark on Week 7.
Live Updates
Cowboys May See Key Players Return
In a glimmer of hope for Cowboys fans, co-owner Stephen Jones has indicated that three major offensive players could make their return this week: standout wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, starting guard Tyler Booker, and wide receiver KaVontae Turpin. Each has battled injuries recently, with Lamb and Booker out for three weeks due to ankle sprains, whereas Turpin missed the last two games because of a foot ailment.
Jones expressed optimism during a broadcast, stating, "I think they have a chance... We felt really good at the end of last week that they might begin practicing again." However, he also acknowledged that their ability to play hinges on their physical readiness.
Colts QB Richardson Likely Out for Extended Period
In unfortunate news for the Colts, Richardson will likely be sidelined for several weeks following a bizarre injury incident during warmups. As reported by ESPN's Stephen Holder, Richardson suffered an orbital fracture when an elastic band he was using malfunctioned, causing it to snap back and strike him in the eye.
This unexpected injury forced him to spend the game in a local hospital, and the swelling has temporarily impaired his vision. While initial reports suggest no damage to his eyeball, it’s unclear how long he will be off the field. In his absence, rookie Riley Leonard is expected to step in as the backup to starting quarterback Daniel Jones.
Bengals Defensive End Day-to-Day
Positive news emerged for the Cincinnati Bengals regarding defensive end Trey Hendrickson. After receiving encouraging MRI results, he is now classified as day-to-day with a back injury. In contrast, tight end Mike Gesicki is expected to miss a more extended period following a pectoral injury.
Buccaneers Set to Face Key Offensively Absences
The Buccaneers coaching staff has indicated that running back Bucky Irving and wide receiver Chris Godwin may not take the field next week. After missing the last game against the Seahawks, Irving is still recovering from a foot issue, while Godwin has struggled this season, appearing in only two games due to a fibula injury.
Egbuka, who left the field with a hamstring injury against the 49ers, will be undergoing tests next week to assess the severity of his condition.
Despite the setbacks, Tampa Bay remains hopeful for the return of wide receiver Mike Evans and cornerbacks Benjamin Morrison and Zyon McCollum, who are trying to get back to practice this week.
Rams’ Star Wide Receiver Expected to Miss Time
From the Los Angeles Rams comes news that their star receiver Puka Nacua is anticipated to be sidelined due to an ankle sprain sustained during last week’s game against the Baltimore Ravens. Known for leading the NFL in receptions, Nacua injured himself while attempting to make a touchdown catch. Although he returned to action during the second half, he was limited and didn’t register any stats for that period. With a game against the Jaguars on the horizon, the Rams will evaluate Nacua's status next week before their bye.
Concerns for Cardinals’ Marvin Harrison Jr.
Arizona's Marvin Harrison Jr. left the game early against the Colts after suffering a concussion. The 2024 rookie was making his first appearance at Lucas Oil Stadium, the very place where his Hall of Fame father once dazzled fans. Unfortunately, he didn’t stay long, ending up in the blue medical tent after taking a hard hit.
This marks Harrison's second concussion in his short NFL career, and he must pass through the league's concussion protocol before he can return to the field.
Jauan Jennings of the 49ers Battling Severe Injuries
To add to the injury woes, 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings has been playing despite enduring five broken ribs, alongside ankle and shoulder sprains. Despite missing games earlier this season, Jennings was back on the field during the loss to the Buccaneers, displaying incredible resilience.
In a candid post-game interview, he acknowledged that playing through injuries is part of the game, stating, "You got to keep playing. Nobody cares. That’s what we do."
The Takeaway
Injuries are an unfortunate but inevitable part of the thrilling NFL landscape, reminding us of the game's physicality and the thin line between victory and defeat. These back-to-back hits to team rosters are not only a challenge for the players but also for coaching staff and fans alike, who must navigate the ups and downs of their teams’ fortunes.
And this is the part most people miss: the long-lasting effects injuries can have not just on the season but on the careers of the players involved.
What do you think? Which injured player do you believe will impact their team's season the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
