AFL, NFL Teams Face Growing Injury Lists Amid Season Preparations

Several sports teams are managing injuries as they approach critical points in their seasons. Melbourne's AFL team reports progress on multiple players, including Jack Henderson returning from a groin injury, Steven May cleared of concussion but suspended, and Ollie Sestan resuming modified contact; however, Jake Lever is unlikely to return this season due to an ankle injury. Adelaide's AFL squad recently cleared defender Jordon Butts to return after recovering from a punctured lung, while Max Michalanney and others continue rehabbing hamstring and jaw injuries. The San Francisco 49ers NFL team saw the return of Deommodore Lenoir and Jordan James to practice, but also face ongoing absences from key players like Kyle Juszczyk, Isaac Guerendo, Kevin Givens, and Sam Okuayinonu. The 49ers made roster moves including releasing kicker Greg Joseph, which may signal confidence in a third-round kicker, and signed several new players to bolster their roster amid injuries. Overall, injury management and player availability remain pivotal challenges for these teams as they prepare for upcoming games.