NFL Injury Report: Jaxson Dart Out for Season, Alec Pierce to IR

Just two weeks into the 2026 NFL season, the injury bug has already bitten hard, leaving teams scrambling and fantasy managers reeling. From season-ending surgeries to nagging aggravations, the latest wave of ailments has shaken the league’s landscape. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the casualties include rising stars and established veterans alike, with quarterbacks Jaxson Dart, Jayden Daniels, and Caleb Williams joining the likes of Sam Darnold on the shelf. As the NFL world braces for more bad news, here’s the latest on the most impactful injuries as of Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

Jaxson Dart’s Rookie Season Cut Short

The New York Giants received devastating news earlier this week: rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart is expected to undergo season-ending knee surgery after suffering a multi-ligament injury in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams. According to multiple reports, Dart damaged his MCL, PCL, and meniscus, though his ACL remains intact—a small silver lining in an otherwise grim diagnosis. The 23-year-old will now focus on rehab ahead of the 2027 season, leaving the Giants to turn to veteran Jameis Winston under center.

From a fantasy perspective, Winston’s presence doesn’t inspire much confidence. While he’ll have more time to prepare than he did in mop-up duty against the Rams, he’s unlikely to deliver consistent QB1 numbers. More importantly, his arrival caps the upside of pass-catchers like Malik Nabers, Isaiah Likely, and Malachi Fields. And with defenses stacking the box, running back Cam Skattebo could face tougher sledding ahead.

Alec Pierce Placed on IR, Colts Seek Answers

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce aggravated a right heel injury during Sunday night’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, an issue that required surgery earlier in his career. The 26-year-old has been placed on injured reserve, with his earliest possible return set for Week 7 against the Minnesota Vikings. Head coach Shane Steichen offered little clarity on a timeline, telling reporters, “We’re going to monitor it, and we’ll go from there.”

Pierce’s absence thrusts Josh Downs into the No. 1 receiver role, while tight end Tyler Warren and running back Jonathan Taylor should see an uptick in targets. Quarterback Daniel Jones will lean on his check-down options, but the Colts’ No. 2 receiver spot remains a rotating cast of Keenan Allen, Laquon Treadwell, and newly signed Darius Slayton—none of whom are currently fantasy-relevant. As highlighted on Vulius, this situation bears monitoring, as a prolonged absence could significantly alter Indianapolis’ offensive dynamics.

Jonathan Brooks Hits IR Again

Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Brooks has landed on injured reserve after suffering a groin injury in Week 2’s win over the Atlanta Falcons. Initially labeled “day-to-day” by head coach Dave Canales, Brooks is now expected to miss approximately six weeks. The 2024 draft pick has been snakebitten by injuries, appearing in just six NFL games across his first two-plus seasons. In 2026, he’s totaled 73 yards on 11 touches while playing 33 offensive snaps.

With Brooks sidelined, Chuba Hubbard will shoulder an even heavier workload. AJ Dillon steps in as the primary handcuff, but the Panthers may explore adding a veteran back—Austin Ekeler is slated to visit the team Wednesday, per league sources. For fantasy managers, Hubbard’s value gets a boost, while Brooks remains a stash in deeper leagues.

League-Wide Injury Fallout

The injury epidemic extends beyond these three headlines. Reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett was placed on IR after Week 1, while playmakers like A.J. Brown, Nico Collins, and Malik Nabers have all missed time. The quarterback carousel continues to spin, with Jayden Daniels and Caleb Williams also banged up. As teams scramble to adjust, the fantasy football landscape shifts weekly. Stay tuned to Vulius for the latest updates and analysis as the 2026 season unfolds.