Full Breakdown
Jeremiah Love Expected to Miss Week 7 Clash with the Broncos
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Rookie RB sidelined for the second straight game
Arizona’s highly touted rookie running back Jeremiyah Love is projected to be unavailable for the Cardinals’ Week 7 matchup against the Denver Broncos. Multiple reports cite CBS Sports analyst Matt Zenitz as confirming that Love’s lingering ankle injury will keep him out of Sunday’s contest, marking the second consecutive week the player will miss action.
Background & Context: Draft pedigree and early NFL production
Love entered the league as the third overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, the highest-drafted running back since Saquon Barkley in 2018. The former Notre Dame standout was expected to anchor Arizona’s offense from day one. After debuting in Week 4, he accumulated 245 rushing yards and one touchdown on 67 carries across five appearances, while also adding 11 receptions for 36 yards and a second touchdown.
Data & Statistics
- Rushing yards: 245
- Carries: 67 (3.7 yards per attempt)
- Touchdowns: 1 rushing, 1 receiving
- Receptions: 11 for 36 yards
- Week 6 performance: 22 yards on 12 carries after returning from the injury in Week 5.
All figures are attributed to Zenitz’s injury update and the Cardinals’ season statistics.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Mike LaFleur emphasized a cautious approach, stating that the team will not rush Love back until he feels “100 %.” LaFleur’s comment, reported by USA Today, underscores the organization’s priority on long-term health over short-term availability.
Impact on Arizona’s Rushing Strategy
With Love sidelined, the Cardinals are expected to rely on Tyler Allgeier as the starter, while Bam Knight, who posted an 80-yard, 15-carry performance against the Rams, will share the load. The team may also elevate practice-squad running back Evan Hull to provide additional depth. The Broncos, ranked 31st in yards allowed per game, present a favorable matchup for Arizona’s remaining backs, but the loss of its top rookie limits the Cardinals’ offensive versatility as the season progresses.