NFL Injury Impact: Lions Hit Hardest Despite League’s Reported Decline in Injuries
In Week 15, a troubling trend emerged as several prominent quarterbacks joined the growing list of injured players. Patrick Mahomes is battling another ankle sprain, Josh Allen suffered a shoulder injury, and Geno Smith is contending with a knee issue.
For the Detroit Lions, the injury toll has been especially devastating, with critical players sidelined during their playoff push. While injuries are a constant concern in the NFL, the league claims that overall injury rates have declined this season.
Mahomes, Allen, and Smith’s Injury Updates
- Patrick Mahomes sustained a mild ankle sprain but plans to play on Saturday when the Kansas City Chiefs (13-1) host the Houston Texans (9-5). Mahomes has a history of performing through ankle injuries, including in the 2022 playoffs, where he led Kansas City to the first of their back-to-back Super Bowl wins.
- Josh Allen underwent precautionary X-rays on his shoulder after taking several hard hits during Buffalo’s 48-42 win over Detroit. The Buffalo Bills (11-3) are still in contention for the No. 1 seed if they win out and the Chiefs drop two games.
- Geno Smith received good news as tests revealed no significant damage to his right knee. The Seattle Seahawks (8-6) remain tied with the Rams atop the NFC West, with the division title likely being decided in their Week 18 matchup.
Detroit Lions Face an Injury Epidemic
No team has been hit harder by injuries than the Detroit Lions (12-2), who lost three key players to season-ending injuries last Sunday and another indefinitely.
- Aidan Hutchinson was already sidelined since Week 6.
- David Montgomery and Alim McNeill both suffered season-ending knee injuries against the Bills.
- Special teams ace Khalil Dorsey underwent season-ending surgery for a broken leg sustained in the same game.
- Carlton Davis is out indefinitely with a jaw injury.
The Lions now have 18 players on injured reserve—the most in the league—including 13 defensive players. Notable defensive losses include Marcus Davenport, John Cominsky, Alex Anzalone, and Derrick Barnes.
These injuries pose a major challenge as the Lions push for a deep playoff run.
NFL’s Injury Trends and Safety Measures
The NFL has added games to the regular season, extending the schedule to 17 games in 2021 and exploring a potential 18-game season in the future. While more games mean greater injury risk, the league reports a decline in overall injuries this year.
According to NFL executive Jeff Miller, injuries through 14 weeks have decreased compared to last season. This includes fewer concussions and lower-body injuries, attributed to adjustments in preseason protocols and player conditioning.
Key Factors in Reduced Injuries
- Helmet Technology: Five helmet models with superior protective ratings have helped lower concussion rates.
- Kickoff Rule Changes: Reduced collision speeds on kickoffs have significantly decreased concussion and lower-body injury rates over the past seven years.
Despite these trends, the reality remains harsh for teams losing key players as the playoffs approach.
How Injuries Affect Super Bowl Contenders
For the Kansas City Chiefs, Mahomes’ injury threatens their bid for a third consecutive championship and a fourth Super Bowl title in six years. Backup quarterback Carson Wentz, a former starter with seven years of experience, offers a safety net. Wentz, who finished third in the NFL MVP race in 2017, knows firsthand the impact of injuries after missing the Eagles’ Super Bowl win that year.
The Buffalo Bills are also grappling with injuries to several starters. Linebacker Matt Milano suffered a groin injury, while safety Taylor Rapp (neck/shoulder), Damar Hamlin (back/ribs), and cornerback Rasul Douglas (knee) are recovering but remain day-to-day.
The Philadelphia Eagles have managed well despite quarterback Jalen Hurts playing with a broken ring finger on his non-throwing hand, which hasn’t affected his performance.
As the playoffs are near, injuries are shaping the fate of NFL teams. While the league celebrates advancements in safety measures, the harsh reality is that staying healthy remains a critical factor for success. Teams like the Lions, Chiefs, and Bills must now rely on their depth and resilience to navigate the postseason and keep their championship hopes alive.
