NFL Week 8 Injury Report: Key Players Miss Time as Teams Adjust

As the 2025 NFL season approaches the halfway mark, injury concerns are mounting for several teams ahead of Week 8 matchups. Notable players such as Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans have all been sidelined due to injuries sustained in recent games. This week, teams must adapt as they navigate a series of critical games.

Injury Updates Impacting Key Matchups

In the upcoming clash between the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Chargers, Carson Wentz is set to start for the fourth consecutive week as he continues to fill in for J.J. McCarthy, who is recovering from an ankle sprain. McCarthy will serve as the emergency No. 3 quarterback behind Wentz and rookie Max Brosmer.

The Buffalo Bills, currently favored by $7 against the Carolina Panthers, are dealing with multiple injuries. Veteran players including wide receiver Curtis Samuel (neck), tight end Dalton Kincaid (oblique), and linebacker Matt Milano (pectoral) were limited in practice on Wednesday. Meanwhile, speedy wideout Josh Palmer (ankle) has not practiced, raising concerns about his availability for the game.

The New York Giants face significant defensive challenges, as three key players—pass rusher Brian Burns (foot), cornerback Paulson Adebo (knee), and safety Jevon Holland (knee)—were absent from practice on Wednesday. On a more positive note, kicker Graham Gano is expected to return from injured reserve.

Star Players Return and Others Remain Uncertain

The Baltimore Ravens may see the return of former NFL MVP Lamar Jackson, who participated in practice on Wednesday despite being limited. His presence is crucial, as the Ravens have struggled without him, recording two losses since he exited a Week 4 game due to a hamstring injury.

In the New York Jets’ matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, head coach Aaron Glenn has not yet named the starting quarterback. Veteran Tyrod Taylor (knee) is likely to play if elevated over Justin Fields. However, wide receiver Garrett Wilson is considered day-to-day with a knee issue, adding to the uncertainty.

The Cleveland Browns are managing the situation with tight end David Njoku, who is slated to practice despite a knee injury. Rookie Harold Fannin Jr. has emerged as a promising option in his absence.

The San Francisco 49ers could face tough competition as both Nico Collins (concussion protocol) and Christian Kirk (hamstring) were absent from practice, potentially leaving quarterback C.J. Stroud without his top targets.

The Miami Dolphins are dealing with a significant loss, as tight end Darren Waller has been placed on injured reserve due to a pectoral issue, sidelining him indefinitely.

The Buccaneers will miss Mike Evans, who suffered a concussion and broken collarbone in Week 7. Additionally, starting running back Bucky Irving (foot, shoulder) and wideout Chris Godwin (fibula) are also ruled out, increasing pressure on the team’s remaining roster.

As teams prepare for their Week 8 matchups, the impact of injuries on performance will be closely watched. With the playoff race intensifying, every game holds significant importance, and teams are forced to adapt quickly to these changes.