Most Significant Injuries Going Into the 2010 NFL Season

Byron Leftwich, Pittsburgh Steelers

With Ben Roethlisberger guaranteed to miss the first 4 games of the season, the quarterback battle in Pittsburgh has been between veteran Byron Leftwich and Steelers fifth round pick in 2008, Dennis Dixon. Leftwich, now sidelined with a potentially serious knee injury after Thursday’s game against the Carolina Panthers, has give way Dennis Dixon starting off the season. Although Dixon has quite a pair of legs on him, his poor performance last week could spell trouble for Pittsburgh as they look to keep their heads above water until Big Ben returns in week 5.

Elvis Dumervil, Denver Broncos

With the Bronco’s top defensive player and sack leader of 2009 sidelined with a chest injury, Elvis Dumervil’s absence could spell disaster for the mile high city. Dumervil has been announced out for the entire season, and Denver’s already shaky defense is bound to keep the Broncos away from any sort of playoff run.

Ed Reed, Baltimore Ravens

With Ed Reed still battling a number of injuries and recently placed on the PUP list, it looks like the Raven’s will be missing him in the backfield for at least 6 weeks. There is no doubt that Reed has a massive impact in the performance of Baltimore’s defense and we are likely to see some noticeable defensive struggles until his return.

Malcolm Kelly, Washington Redskins

With Donovan McNabb expected to do big things in Washington, there is no doubt he will be missing Malcolm Kelly in the early weeks of the season. Kelly, who re-aggravated a hamstring injury last week, is a force to be reckoned with as a 6’4″ third year receiver. With Kelly out, McNabb will have to turn towards the unproven Devin Thomas for offensive productivity.

Sidney Rice, Minnesota Vikings

As Bret Farve’s favorite target in 2009, Sidney Rice’s absence in the early part of the season is expected to have a big impact on the Vikings offense. Rice, who just underwent hip surgery, is expected to be out a minimum of 6 games with the possibility of the entire season. We will just have to wait in see who will be able to step and fill his shoes during those first 6 games (maybe longer).

Whether you are a huge fan of one of the above teams in question or are a regular when it comes toNFL betting, these key injuries are likely to have some rather significant effects on these team’s performance in 2010. Be sure to leave us a comment below and share your thoughts on which injuries you think will have the  most significant impact going into the 2010 NFL season.