The big variable in pro football is always injuries. Teams that stay healthy are teams that compete for Super Bowls. As training camps begin around the league, who’s faring well and who’s falling a little behind on the injury front?
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have experienced some problems at the backup running back spot, making life more difficult for Frank Gore. The Niners have seen Kendall Hunter get injured for the full season, while LaMichael James has suffered an elbow injury that should keep him out of action for at least a month or so. The Niners will have to tread lightly in the preseason. They can’t afford to give Gore any action, so that he’s ready to go when the season starts.
Buffalo Bills
The Bills didn’t suffer this injury within the context of training camp, but it’s a huge one as they try to prepare for the season and their set of preseason games. Kiko Alonso, a tremendous playmaking linebacker who did so much for the Bills’ defense, is out for the season with an injury suffered weeks ago. Buffalo will find it a lot harder to compete without Alonso on the field.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns have suffered a couple of injuries that will carry some length and significance. Guard Jason Pinkston is out indefinitely with an undisclosed injury, and center Nick McDonald is out four to six weeks, placing his availability for the season opener in jeopardy.
Indianapolis Colts
Colt running back Vick Ballard is out for the season, dealing the team a major blow and forcing someone else to step up in order to help Andrew Luck with the team’s offense. This now puts more pressure on Trent Richardson to deliver.
New England Patriots
Patriots running back Tyler Gaffney has been placed on the injured list and is out for the regular season. The Pats are deep at the position with Stevan Ridley, Shane Vereen, James White and Branden Bolden, so it shouldn’t affect them too much.
New York Giants
Giants running back David Wilson can’t shake the injury bug. He suffered a neck injury, and his status is uncertain right now. Rashad Jennings was signed to help shoulder the workload in the backfiend but if Wilson’s neck doesn’t improve, he could become the feature back.
