David Chao, MD
2 min read • July 28, 2023
Posted in
In the NFL, ACL tears prove to be one of the most challenging injuries to recover from. While players like Adrian Peterson have managed to deliver breakout performances in their first year back from an ACL tear, the majority of athletes typically require more time to regain their effectiveness. Today, we delve into the recovery journeys of nine skill position players who suffered a torn ACL last season.
Former No. 1 pick Kyler Murray has had a volatile career. He is currently recovering from a right knee ACL tear he suffered on Dec. 12 and is not expected to resemble his pre-injury self until at least the second half of the season. The Pro Football Docs do not anticipate significant contributions from his rushing ability this season. Murray has started training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
The Lions selected Hendon Hooker in the third round, a favorable landing spot where he is unlikely to face undue pressure for a rushed return. Currently rehabbing from an ACL tear sustained on Nov. 19, he will not be prepared for the start of the NFL season. Hooker has begun training camp on the Non-Football Injury list, although reporters have noted him engaging in throwing sessions after practice.
Broncos running back Javonte Williams tore three ligaments in his right knee in Week 4 of last year. Since then, the Broncos have placed significant emphasis on rehabilitating Williams and ensuring his readiness for the upcoming season. Williams has expressed confidence in his participation during training camp. However, as of the start of training camp, he hasn't been on the PUP list or NFI.
Jets running back Breece Hall was the center of the offense until he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in Week 7 last season. His injured left knee may not get back to 100% healthy at any point this season, but his second half will certainly be better than his first half. Hall has seemed confident to start Week 1, but started training camp on the PUP list.
The Giants' top wide receiver, who is expected to lead the receiving corps, is currently recovering from a left knee ACL tear sustained in September of the previous season. Shepard has encountered several injuries throughout his career, notably a torn Achilles in 2021. Although he has begun training camp on the PUP list, he is anticipated to regain his form in the latter half of the season.
Fellow Giants wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson is a few months behind Shepard in his recovery, as he suffered a torn ACL in his right knee in November of the previous season. Robinson has been placed on the PUP list at the outset of training camp, and it's unlikely he will be removed from it before the start of the season. It's likely that he won't resemble his pre-injury self until the beginning of the 2024 season.
In 2022, Patrick missed the entire season after tearing his ACL in training camp. He faces a challenging recovery to reach 100% and is expected to make a significant contribution only in the second half of the season. However, with a deep Broncos wide receiver core, he may not be under excessive pressure to perform early. Patrick has been a full participant in practice since OTAs.
Cardinals tight end Zach Ertz endured a torn ACL in his left knee in mid-September, resulting in his placement on the PUP list to begin training camp. While tight ends generally experience quicker recovery timelines compared to wideouts or running backs, it remains uncertain if Ertz will be fully effective as a pass catcher until the second half of the season.
Former Colts running back Nyheim Hines has reworked his contract with Buffalo, securing his stay until 2025. However, he is expected to miss the 2023 season due to a left ACL injury sustained while stationary on a jet ski, being struck by another rider. With Hines out, James Cook will likely take on additional pass-catching responsibilities.
Written by David Chao, MD
