Preseason Injury Landscape
The preseason injury report across the Power Four reveals a cascade of absences that could reshape early‑season dynamics. Teams from Alabama to USC are navigating a litany of lower‑body setbacks that range from day‑to‑day to season‑ending, forcing coaches to re‑evaluate depth charts before the first kickoff.
Alabama’s backfield will be without RB Dear, a loss that pushes Daniel Hill and Kevin Riley into starting roles. The early‑season schedule now tests the durability of a committee approach that has never been relied upon in the program’s recent history.
At Clemson, star receiver T.J. Moore is listed as day‑to‑day with a lower‑body injury, while safety Polo Anderson has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign after a knee tear. The Tigers’ secondary will miss Anderson’s experience, adding pressure on younger corners to fill the void.
Florida’s offense sees a boost as Vernell Brown III returns to practice after a foot injury and is expected to start alongside Dallas Wilson and Eric Singleton Jr. His presence could restore a measure of balance to a unit that has been hampered by injuries early in the year.
Florida State’s defensive backfield takes a hit with cornerback Karson Hobbs sidelined for the season after a torn ACL. The Seminoles will need to lean on younger players to maintain competitiveness in the secondary.
Kansas State’s offensive line suffers a major blow as tackle John Pastore is out for the season with a lower‑body injury. The Wildcats’ rushing attack may be forced to adapt without the protection that Pastore provided.
Maryland’s defensive end Zahir Mathis, a top returning defender, will miss the season due to a knee injury. His absence removes a key pass‑rushing threat from the Terrapins’ front seven.
Notre Dame’s wide receiver Quincy Porter is listed as questionable for the opener after a minor procedure on a lower‑body injury. His status will be closely watched as the Fighting Irish open their schedule.
Oklahoma’s center Jake Maikkula is out for several weeks with a knee injury, opening the door for Caleb Nitta to assume the starting role. The Sooners hope the transition will not disrupt their offensive rhythm.
South Carolina faces a cluster of injuries that include edge rusher Dylan Stewart and tackle Jacarrius Peak, both listed as uncertain for the opener, as well as wide receivers Jayden Sellers and Jayden Gibson, who are out for the season. The Gamecocks’ depth at both line and receiver is now severely tested.
Tennessee’s safety Edrees Farooq suffered a torn patella tendon and is out for the season, a blow that weakens a secondary already dealing with turnover concerns.
Texas’ offensive tackle Trevor Goosby is listed as hopeful but uncertain for the season opener, leaving the Longhorns to consider alternative line combinations early in the year.
Texas A&M’s linebacker Daymion Sanford may return for the opener, providing a much‑needed lift to a defense that has been depleted by injuries.
USC’s center Kilian O’Connor is out for the season, with Tobias Raymond expected to step in as his replacement. The Trojans will look to maintain stability at the line despite the loss.
Across the Power Four, each program will release updated availability reports during game week, offering clearer insight into the severity of these injuries and how they might influence early‑season rankings and championship expectations.