How many regular season games must a player on injured reserve miss?

A player placed on injured reserve must miss a minimum of four regular season games. This rule is designed to ensure that teams manage their rosters effectively and allows players sufficient time to heal before returning to game action. Injured reserve is a designation that indicates a player will not be available for game participation for that duration, which also relates to the strategic aspect of team management and roster construction.

In the context of the NFL, the decision to place a player on injured reserve is not taken lightly, as it restricts the player's ability to participate in games and impacts the team's overall roster. Since the league emphasizes player health and safety, the minimum four-game absence helps to ensure that players are fully recovered before they return to play, minimizing the risk of exacerbating injuries.

Understanding the implications of being placed on injured reserve is crucial for both agents and players, as it affects contract negotiations, roster spots, and long-term career considerations.