Full Breakdown
Cardinals’ Top Rookie RB Out for At Least a Week with Ankle Soreness
8/15/2026, 11:47:29 PM
Core Event
Arizona Cardinals rookie running back Jeremiyah Love, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, suffered an ankle injury during the team’s preseason win over the Las Vegas Raiders on August 13, 2026. The injury was initially described as minor, but by August 15, 2026 the team announced that Love would miss the upcoming practice week and the preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys. The exact timeline for his return remains undecided, and his availability for the regular-season opener in September has not been confirmed.
Background & Context
Love entered the NFL after a decorated collegiate career at Notre Dame, where he won the Doak Walker Award and amassed 35 rushing touchdowns in his final two seasons. The Cardinals signed him to a fully guaranteed four-year, $53 million rookie contract, the largest guaranteed amount ever given to a running back. The team expected Love to be an immediate offensive weapon, a rare expectation for a rookie running back taken that high in the draft.
Data & Statistics
- Preseason debut (August 13): 11 carries for 58 yards (5.3 yards per carry) and three receptions for 14 yards, totaling 72 yards on 14 touches.
- College production: 199 carries for 1,372 yards and 18 rushing touchdowns in his final season; 27 receptions for 280 yards and three receiving touchdowns in 2025.
- Depth chart: With Love sidelined, the Cardinals will rely on veteran James Conner, free-agent signing Tyler Allgeier, and backups Bam Knight, Corey Kiner, Trey Benson, and Evan Hull.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Mike LaFleur addressed the situation at a press conference on August 15. LaFleur emphasized a cautious approach, noting that the focus was on the day’s practice block and that Love’s status would be re-evaluated after the week. He declined to project Love’s availability for the September regular-season opener, stating the team would decide “going into next week” based on his recovery. LaFleur also highlighted the importance of preseason reps for running backs, arguing that live-game repetitions are essential for adapting to NFL speed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He was in great spirits, even Friday,” — Mike LaFleur, cardinals head coach
- “Well, if you have a back that can run routes out of the backfield, you typically have favorable matchups,” — Mike LaFleur, cardinals head coach
- “This week and then we'll kind of go from there and reevaluate,” — Mike LaFleur, cardinals head coach
- “We’ll keep him out this week, as we let it heal,” — Mike LaFleur, cardinals head coach
- “He came in yesterday a little bit more sore than he left,” — Mike LaFleur, cardinals head coach
What’s Next
- Preseason game vs. Dallas Cowboys: Love will miss the contest scheduled for the following Saturday.
- Re-evaluation: The Cardinals will assess Love’s ankle after the week of rest and determine whether he can practice and participate in the remaining preseason schedule.
- Regular-season outlook: No definitive timeline has been provided for Love’s return ahead of the team’s season opener in September against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Cardinals will continue to monitor his progress while leaning on the depth of running backs already on the roster.
