Cardinals rookie Jeremiyah Love sidelined with ankle injury ahead of season opener

Arizona Cardinals rookie running back Jeremiyah Love is unlikely to participate in the remainder of the preseason following a high ankle sprain, sources told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter on Sunday. The injury occurred during the team’s Thursday night match against the Las Vegas Raiders, where Love recorded 23 snaps, including 11 rushes for 58 yards and three receptions for 14 yards.

Head coach Mike LaFleur confirmed the injury took place on the final play of the contest, describing Love as being rolled up on the tackle. While LaFleur initially declined to specify the severity of the ankle issue earlier in the day, stating simply that it was an ankle injury, the diagnosis of a high ankle sprain was later confirmed by team sources. The Cardinals had managed Love’s workload carefully, noting that the rookie had not featured in previous preseason games.

Despite the setback, the organisation remains hopeful that Love will be fit for the season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 1. LaFleur highlighted Love’s performance during the game, noting that the rookie’s confidence increased significantly after the third drive and that he demonstrated the ability to stay grounded as the match progressed.

In addition to Love’s status, the Cardinals provided an update on rookie quarterback Carson Beck, who remains day-to-day with rib soreness. Beck sustained the injury during the first quarter of last week’s Hall of Fame Game on a four-yard run. LaFleur stated that while the discomfort persists, it is not expected to be a long-term issue, and the team is allowing him additional time to heal.

The coaching staff indicated that the decision to limit snaps for both rookies was part of a broader strategy regarding how many games they would play during the preseason. With the regular season approaching, the Cardinals are monitoring both players closely to ensure they are prepared for the opening fixture.