Palmer makes a difference because of the next man up principal. With him there, Coleman and Shavers see less snaps. He is better than those two.
Were things worse? Sure. But let's not act like other than Oliver no one else that's missing or likely to be matters. Heck, I didn't even mention above Spencer Brown may well miss this week too. Does he matter?
Overall, yes. It seemed like earlier this season we would lose 2 players for every one we got back. Now it seems we are getting 2 back for every one we lose. But there's still a LOT of guys that will miss this week. And that includes guys on season ending IR.