The 2017 NFL season is well underway with classic games and electric plays under its belt. It seems like their playing-time from September to February never ends, but this year’s players have suffered from an epidemic that fans could do away with: Injuries. This isn’t anything new, as weekly reports of players getting hurt have become the norm, yet this season feels different. We have seen the fall of many star athletes. It’s a frustrating issue that nobody can stop and might be one of the worst obstacles for the league to overcome.

Sundays are known for football showdowns and relaxation, so it should go without saying that many fans can’t wait to watch their favorite players duel on the gridiron. This may not be the case for a large portion of NFL fans for the rest of the season, as many of the NFL’s top athletes are getting hurt. Icons like Aaron Rodgers, Odell Beckham Jr., and JJ Watt have all suffered lengthy injuries, but the list is only beginning. The domino effect began when star Patriots receiver Julian Edelman tore his ACL during a preseason match in Detroit. Ever since then, players such as David Johnson, Allen Robinson, Dalvin Cook, Marshal Yanda, Joe Thomas, Tyler Eifert, and Carson Palmer have all been put on Injured Reserve, ending their seasons.

This isn’t a good look for the NFL, as these injuries could prevent many potential viewers from tuning in every gameday. Most fans don’t want to watch some backup taking their fantasy team leader’s job. Although that sounds harsh, it’s reality. Another result of this sudden injury bug could be a depletion in sales. Many of the athletes listed may drop in the jersey rankings for NFLShop.com because people are not inspired to purchase something that is linked to a person that has shown zero action all season.

Injuries are hard to defend against, but the league has to try its best to fight them. Implementing stricter rules for later and lower hits can possibly be the difference-maker for this kind of sports tragedy. Nobody wants to see anyone else get hurt, especially ones that create enjoyment for all.