Jeremiyah Love sustained a high ankle sprain during his preseason debut with the Arizona Cardinals, occurring on his final touch of the night in the second quarter. The injury has created uncertainty regarding his availability for the team’s regular season opener on Sept. 13 against the Chargers. Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur initially indicated Love could have continued playing, but the injury proved more serious upon further evaluation. LaFleur stated the player was more sore the day after the game than expected and would be held out of practice and subsequent preseason contests to allow for healing.
Despite the injury, Love impressed during his limited playing time, accumulating 72 yards from scrimmage on 14 touches. His performance drew praise for his explosiveness and agility. Love played 23 offensive snaps in the preseason debut, the second-most of any first-round rookie skill position player. LaFleur indicated the extensive playing time was intentional, given Love’s status as a rookie without prior professional game experience.
The injury has compounded roster challenges for Arizona’s offensive backfield. Second-round guard Chase Bisontis tore his MCL and was ruled out for the season. Veteran running back James Conner, a two-time Pro Bowler, is recovering from a severe foot and ankle injury and has not yet participated in full-contact practice. Third-round pick Trey Benson has dealt with a knee issue during the preseason.
The crowded running back room includes Tyler Allgeier, who was signed in the offseason and has emerged as the top backup to Love, along with Conner, Benson, Bam Knight, and several others. The depth of injuries at the position may influence Arizona’s roster decisions and potential trade considerations before roster cutdowns.
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