The NFL injury situation shifts significantly as teams handle the early weeks of the 2026 season, with several marquee players facing extended absences due to serious medical setbacks. From major knee surgeries to unique hip ailments, franchises across the league are reshuffling their depth charts to cope with sudden personnel losses.

New York Giants Lose Rookie Quarterback Jaxson Dart for Regular Season

The New York Giants face a major roster hurdle after head coach John Harbaugh confirmed that rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart will miss the remainder of the regular season due to a torn meniscus and medial collateral ligament (MCL). Dart sustained the knee injury during a 28-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams when his left leg buckled during a tackle, forcing him out of the game early.

Medical evaluations confirmed the severity of the damage, requiring surgical intervention that effectively sidelines the 23-year-old first-round pick until a potential playoff run. The setback deals a heavy blow to the Giants’ offense following initial optimism from general manager Joe Schoen that the injury might only involve a minor strain.

Seattle Seahawks QB Sam Darnold Targets Week 3 Return From Hip Injury

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold aims to return to the field for Week 3 against the Washington Commanders after missing a contest due to a gluteal tendon and hip injury sustained in the season opener against the New England Patriots. Darnold described his status day-to-day while noting positive progress on the practice field.

NFL Injury Update 2026: Latest News on Star Players

While Darnold works toward clearance from the team’s medical staff, backup quarterback Drew Lock stands ready to command the offense after guiding the Seahawks to a 2-0 start.

San Francisco 49ers Suffer Multiple Rookie and Veteran Injuries

Minnesota Vikings Manage Kyler Murray’s Concussion Protocol

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell announced that quarterback Kyler Murray will return to the starting lineup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after successfully clearing the league’s concussion protocol. Murray exited the Vikings’ season-opening matchup against the Green Bay Packers following a helmet-to-helmet hit during a scramble. Backup Carson Wentz filled in during Murray’s two-game absence.

Philadelphia Eagles Evaluate Saquon Barkley Following Nerve Injury

The Philadelphia Eagles are monitoring running back Saquon Barkley after the star ball-carrier sustained a stinger—a painful nerve irritation in the shoulder and neck region—during a narrow 24-20 victory over the Tennessee Titans. Head coach Nick Sirianni stated that the team awaits magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results to determine the exact severity of the nerve issue and whether Barkley will miss upcoming games.