Training camp in the NFL is supposed to be a time for optimism, as players get back on the field together for workouts and practice, preparing for what will hopefully be a successful season. Unfortunately, it also brings with it the risk of serious injury that can derail a season before it even begins.
Cincinnati Bengals star wide receiver A.J. Green suffered an ankle injury at practice in Dayton on Saturday, and according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the MRI results revealed torn ligaments that will sideline him for up to two months, meaning he’s unlikely to be able to play in the team’s opener in Seattle.
An MRI revealed that Bengals’ WR A.J. Green has torn ligaments in his left ankle that is likely to sideline him six to eight weeks, source tells ESPN. Green is not expected to be ready for the regular-season opener at Seattle.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 28, 2019
It’s a highly unfortunate for Green and the Bengals, who apparently were upset they were being pushed to practice in Dayton by the NFL on a field they deemed to be subpar.
AJ Green tore ligaments in his ankle practicing at the University of Dayton’s Welcome Stadium, as part of NFL’s 100th-anniversary celebration. Field conditions were considered subpar; more scrutiny expected over decision to practice there. Green expected to be sidelined 6-8 weeks
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 28, 2019
However, the Bengals did end up clearing the field (whether that was under pressure to do so we don’t know) and now must live with the unfortunate consequences.
More on the decision to practice at the University of Dayton where A.J. tore ligament in his ankle Saturday: Bengals cleared the football field for use in the end, per source. Team did a site survey there and confirmed it was good to go.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 28, 2019
Football is a dangerous enough sport as is and the NFL has taken more and more precautions to try and limit practice injuries by cutting back on contact periods, but poor field conditions are almost as dangerous as doing full contact. The hope now is simply that when Green does return, the injury doesn’t limit him or linger deeper into the season for Cincinnati’s best offensive weapon.
