The Arizona Cardinals will be without rookie running back Jeremiyah Love for at least one week after he suffered an ankle injury during the team’s preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday, August 7. Head coach Mike LaFleur confirmed Saturday that Love will miss this week’s practice sessions as his injury heals.
Love’s ankle soreness worsened by Friday, prompting the Cardinals to take a cautious approach. LaFleur stated that the team will reevaluate Love’s status next week, with no immediate timeline for his return beyond the upcoming week. He will not play in the second preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys on August 16, though LaFleur declined to speculate on Love’s availability for the regular season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers on September 13.
In Love’s absence, Tyler Allgeier is expected to take on a larger role in the backfield, with Bam Knight and Corey Kiner providing support. The Cardinals also face a setback on the offensive line, as second-round pick Chase Bisontis tore the MCL in his left knee during the same preseason game. Bisontis will undergo surgery and is expected to be placed on injured reserve.
Love, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, carried the ball 11 times for 58 yards and added three receptions for 14 yards in his preseason debut. His performance included two explosive runs of 14 and 16 yards, but his injury raises questions about his readiness for the regular season. LaFleur emphasized that the team will proceed with caution, prioritizing Love’s long-term health over short-term gains.
The Cardinals’ next steps will depend on Love’s recovery progress, with the team set to face the Green Bay Packers in their final preseason game on August 23. LaFleur’s brother, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, will lead the opposing team in that matchup. The Cardinals’ coaching staff has not yet provided an update on the status of veteran running back James Conner, who remains sidelined with a right foot injury.