Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season has kicked off with several significant injuries already reshaping the landscape for teams and bettors alike. Fans and fantasy managers should pay attention, as top players like Brock Purdy and Brock Bowers are sidelined, potentially impacting game outcomes and betting lines across the league.
Giants vs Cowboys: Offensive and defensive setbacks
The Dallas Cowboys will be without cornerback DaRon Bland (foot), while the New York Giants are likely to miss left tackle Andrew Thomas and have wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson listed as questionable. Despite these absences, betting lines remain relatively steady, with a minor adjustment moving Dallas from -4.5 to -5.5 on the spread.
Seahawks vs Steelers: Secondary hits
The Pittsburgh Steelers are down Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring), DeShon Elliott (knee), and Derrick Harmon (knee), while the Seattle Seahawks will likely miss Devon Witherspoon (knee) and Nick Emmanwori (ankle). These injuries are significant for both teams’ defenses, prompting the spread to shift from -1.5 to -3 in Pittsburgh’s favor and the over/under dropping from 43.5 to 39.5.
Rams vs Titans: Rookie losses
The Tennessee Titans will be without offensive tackle JC Latham and defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat, while the Los Angeles Rams may miss starting guard Steve Avila. These absences are critical given Tennessee’s defensive matchups and the Rams’ offensive strategy. The total for this game has dropped significantly from 46.5 to 41.5.
Bills vs Jets: Defensive injuries
Buffalo’s defense faces key losses with Ed Oliver (ankle) out, while cornerbacks Tre’Davious White and Taron Johnson are questionable. These injuries open opportunities for the New York Jets offense and have influenced betting lines, moving the Bills from -8.5 to -6.5 and increasing the total from 44.5 to 46.5.
49ers vs Saints: Quarterback and star player absences
San Francisco will be without quarterback Brock Purdy (toe) for potentially five weeks and tight end George Kittle (hamstring) on injured reserve. The Saints are missing Chase Young, Trevor Penning, and Julian Blackmon, affecting defensive and offensive stability. As a result, the spread has narrowed from -7 to -3, with the total dropping from 44.5 to 40.5.
Other notable injuries
Chicago Bears vs Detroit Lions: Bears’ Kyler Gordon (hamstring) out, Grady Jarrett (knee) questionable; Lions’ Taylor Decker (shoulder) and Kirby Joseph (knee) questionable.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs Cincinnati Bengals: No major injuries reported, keeping lineups relatively stable.
Implications for bettors
These injuries highlight the importance of staying up to date for betting decisions. Key absences, particularly at quarterback and star skill positions, can shift spreads, totals, and odds. Bettors should consider matchups, backups, and team adjustments before placing wagers.