NFL Preseason Week 1 Injuries: A Comprehensive Breakdown

NFL preseason Week 1 is officially in the books, and not many teams were left unscathed. The Washington Commanders’ quarterback Marcus Mariota suffered a sprained MCL that should hold him out for the remainder of the preseason. Minnesota Vikings defensive Swiss Army knife Jamal Adams suffered a season-ending injury in the Meadowlands, while Houston Texans backup signal-caller Graham Mertz tore his ACL. The Arizona Cardinals are dealing with several notable issues.

Winning the war of attrition is crucial for any Super Bowl contender, and a major injury could derail any team’s season. Unfortunately, it happens every year, and sometimes before we even reach the regular season.

Tennessee Titans

Backup quarterback Mitch Trubisky was seen holding his throwing arm after a deep pass attempt. Head coach Robert Saleh said he’s being evaluated for a biceps injury. Depending on the severity, this could open the door for Will Levis to see more reps.

The New York Jets’ star running back Breece Hall went down untouched after making a catch. ESPN’s Rich Cimini said it looked like a possible groin injury, as trainers were examining Hall’s upper right leg. Jets head coach Aaron Glenn didn’t seem too worried, telling reporters afterward, ‘I don’t think it was a big deal.’

Arizona Cardinals

The No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Jeremiyah Love, had an explosive preseason debut, rushing for 58 yards on 11 carries, and turning three receptions into 14 yards. However, he left with what was determined to be a high ankle sprain.

Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur initially said that Love ‘could have returned’ to action, but two days later said the rookie would not practice this week or play in Week 2 of the preseason. High ankle sprains are issues that can linger, so it’s fair to speculate about his status for the season opener on Sept. 13.

It turns out the Cardinals’ top two picks from this year’s draft were injured in the preseason opener, but the news is much worse for No. 34 overall pick Chase Bisontis. The Texas A&M product unfortunately tore his MCL, and will miss his entire rookie season. Bisontis was viewed as one of the top interior linemen in this past class, having played snaps at both guard and center. Now, he is forced to turn his efforts to recovery.

Minnesota Vikings

Adams suffered a torn quadricep during the Vikings’ preseason opener, head coach Kevin O’Connell announced. It’s a season-ending injury for Adams, who signed with Minnesota in late July. He’s expected to stay around the team during his recovery, O’Connell said. Adams also suffered the same injury during his time with the Seattle Seahawks back in 2022, but this one is to the opposite leg.