Injuries and Promising Debuts in the 2025 NFL Preseason

The NFL preseason is underway, marked by key injuries and the unexpected emergence of new talent.
Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams)

Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford remains sidelined for camp and practice due to a persistent back injury (a ruptured disk), which has raised concerns among the team. Although coach Sean McVay says he's taken a precautionary approach, Stafford hasn't shown significant improvement—he even wore only street clothes and used a red light therapy camera—and there's no clear news regarding his return. His availability for the season debut is in doubt, and the situation puts additional pressure on backup Jimmy Garoppolo.

Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts)

In a stroke of bad luck, Anthony Richardson suffered a dislocated pinky finger during the preseason opener after a hit from David Ojabo. Fortunately, clean X-rays and a quick recovery allowed him to return to practice the next day. In more recent practices, he showed positive flashes—including a rushing touchdown and a two-point conversion—although the competition for the starting job remains tight against veteran Daniel Jones.

LaJohntay Wester (Baltimore Ravens)

Meanwhile, rookie LaJohntay Wester has been the pleasant surprise of the week. In his Ravens debut, he returned a punt for 87 yards and a touchdown, becoming Pro Football Focus' highest-graded rookie receiver of the preseason. His performance almost instantly secured him the primary role as a returner. Wester even "predicted" that memorable play before the game, showing complete confidence in his abilities.

Overview
Player Current Status Potential Impact
Matthew Stafford Out with back soreness, no clear improvement. Risk for early season.
Anthony Richardson Pinky dislocation, positive progress. Competition revived by starting QB.
LaJohntay Wester Return touchdown and key new role. Spectacular debut, defined role.
The preseason has proven to be full of emotions: from the physical fragility of veterans like Stafford, to the push for new talents like Wester, not to mention the physical challenges faced by promising young players like Richardson.