Running back injuries have been running wild in training camp so far with the NFL as several teams have dealt with starters and backups missing time. With several marquee free agents sitting on the open market waiting for a phone call, the pressure could increase to make signings as injuries continue. The Buffalo Bills are learning that lesson as they are now down to just two healthy running backs on the roster.
LeSean McCoy is the latest starter to go down with an injury in training camp. According to Mike Rodak of ESPN.com, McCoy limped off the field with a left leg injury and will undergo an MRI to determine the extent of the issue. Head coach Rex Ryan told the media that the running back's hamstring is still intact and the team was hopeful a recovery would be quick. McCoy's injury is just one on a long list for the Bills. Fred Jackson is out with a hamstring problem. Boobie Dixon hurt his calf. Bryce Brown injured his hamstring and Karlos Williams was hospitalized for unknown reasons.
These are injuries Buffalo cannot afford. The team is already dealing with uncertainty at the quarterback position as EJ Manuel, Matt Cassel and Tyrod Taylor have all failed to impress in their stints as starters. The run game is going to be critical for the Bills and if these injuries continue, they might have to bring in help. Ray Rice, Pierre Thomas and Steven Jackson are the best available and would sign for cheap. The important thing to remember is that nothing can be put past Ryan as head coach and if he needs to make a move, he will.
Percy Harvin and Sammy Watkins are also dealing with issues that are putting pressure on players like Charles Clay and Robert Woods. Harvin is having hip problems that have been an issue before. According to ESPN.com, Harvin will miss at least a week or two as he undergoes injections in his hip to fix a problem. Harvin has been an injury problem in the past. The wide receiver makes an impact when healthy, but has struggled to maintain that since he entered the league. The Bills are learning that the hard way.
Buffalo has a lot of question marks at this point in the preseason. Ryan is doing his best to diminish the drama, but more injuries keep creeping up and the Bills are looking poised for another rough start in the league.