NFL Week 2 Injury Updates: Running Backs Michael Turner & Ryan Mathews Injured

With the 2010 NFL season full underway, bumps and bruises are accompanying it. Today, during the Week 2 matchups, two potential playoff contenders lost their starting running backs due to injuries.

Atlanta Falcons back Michael Turner suffered a groin injury, while San Diego Chargers runner Ryan Mathews reportedly hurt his right ankle. Luckily, it does appear that neither injury is too serious. 

Unfortunately, the Falcons not only lost Turner, but also his counterpart Jerious Norwood, in the 41-7 win over Arizona. However, Jason Snelling stepped in and was very effective, amassing 186 yards from scrimmage and scoring three touchdowns. 

"That says a lot about the depth of our team," coach Mike Smith said in his post-game press conference regarding Snelling's performance. "He's a darned good football player, not only running the football but catching the football."

NFL.com reported that Turner was able to return to the game, but didn't since the Falcons were already leading big in what turned out to be a blowout 41-7 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.

Mathews, on the other hand, was injured on a three-yard run during the first quarter of the Chargers' 38-13 victory over the the Jacksonville Jaguars. Jags LB Kirk Morrison landed on Mathews' legs, forcing him out of the game. 

Fullback Mike Tolbert replaced Matthews as the primary rusher, and went on to register 95 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Darren Sproles' versatility was also utilized, with the speedster totaling exactly 100 combined yards (37 on the ground, 63 through the air). 

Nonetheless, I'm sure that the Chargers will want their rookie starter back in action sooner rather than later, as they expect him to be an integral key to their offense. Further tests will be done on his ankle, and more information should be released soon. 

I wish both players a speedy and safe recovery, and I hope we can all see them get back onto the field as soon as possible.