Four most important NFL players returning from injury at training camp

Across the NFL, training camp is well underway, meaning hope springs eternal for all 32 teams — at least for the summer while everyone is 0-0.

These hopes are also fueled by the return of key players from season-ending injuries. Players get to see their teammates back in full pads after months of working out and are reminded of the impact they could have on Sundays. 

These are the four most important players returning from injury at training camp.

DE Aidan Hutchinson

The Detroit Lions defensive captain ended his 2024 season on a somber note after fracturing his tibia and fibula in Week 6. At the time, the University of Michigan alum suggested he could return in time for a potential Super Bowl run — the Lions didn't make it out of the divisional round.

Hutchinson has been rehabbing for months, ready to hit the field again, and has done so in top form. On Tuesday, the Lions held a full-pads scrimmage between the starting offense and defense, which Hutchinson dominated. According to observers, Hutchinson was the best player on the field, recording three sacks and stifling the offense's momentum. That's welcome news for the Lions, who will need his game-wrecking capabilities if the team wants to be a serious contender.

QB Dak Prescott

The Dallas Cowboys' signal-caller has been ridiculed for his inability to lead his team deep into the postseason after nine years in Dallas. He's not even considered a top-10 quarterback by some league personnel. Still, when he went down with a hamstring injury in Week 9 last season, the Cowboys spiraled and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2020. 

Quarterback is the most important position on the football field; thus, Prescott is the team's most important player. Even with team owner Jerry Jones making uninspiring coaching hires in the offseason, the team gave Prescott a new weapon in ex-Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens. Their connection is already evident in camp, but Prescott will have to prove it's a viable one on game day.