Panthers’ Nic Scourton Sidelined with ACL Tear
On the first day of training camp, edge rusher Nic Scourton suffered a torn ACL and was placed on injured reserve, ending his season prematurely. His teammates were reportedly by his side as he left the field in tears.
Dave Canales, head coach of the Panthers, confirmed that Scourton will undergo an MRI to determine the severity—he’s out for the year. Here are updates from other key injuries hitting NFL teams during training camp.
Bryan Bresee's Season-Ending ACL Tear
The Saints lost valuable defensive tackle Bryan Bresee with a major injury just days into practice on Wednesday, ruling him out for the upcoming season after tearing his ACL. The former first-round pick was quietly one of the NFL’s top performers.
Shemar Stewart's Hyperextended Knee Injury
The Bengals' 2025 first-roundpick suffered a hyperextended knee during practice, ending his rookie season prematurely. ESPN reports no ligament damage, which is deemed a fortunate outcome considering initial speculations about the severity.
Chris Brazzell II's LCL Tear Surgery
Celebrate rookie WR Chris Brazzell II’s journey back from an LCL tear: while initially hoping to recover without surgery, his second opinion recommended opting for it. This will sideline him through his entire rookie season, extending the original timeline of eight weeks significantly.
Why Did These Players Get Injured?
Common causes range from knee injuries like ACL tears and LCL damage, which are tough for new players to avoid during rigorous training camps. Teams often stress on safety but injuries can't always be prevented.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are ACL injuries in NFL players?
A common result of sudden changes in direction and rigorous physical activity, ACL tears are frequent among football players, contributing to season-ending damage like Scourton’s injury.
Can players return from an LCL tear without surgery?
Depending on the severity, non-surgical treatments can suffice for minor cases. However, as in Chris Brazzell II's case, a significant tear may require surgical repair.
How long is the recovery period after an ACL tear?
The typical timeline ranges from 6 to 12 months, with full return requiring rehabilitation and strength training to prevent future injuries. Scourton’s situation shows it can be even longer depending on individual scenarios.