Cardinals Coach Reveals Timeline for Rookie RB Jeremiyah Love's Return

On Thursday, rookie running back Jeremiyah Love made his NFL debut, playing in a preseason game and displaying strong performance. He rushed for 58 yards on 11 carries, averaging 5.3 yards per carry, and scored two crucial touchdowns in the second quarter. Despite his impressive effort, Love suffered a left ankle injury and was removed from the game for the remainder of the contest.

Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur announced on Saturday that Love would sit out the following week to allow his injury to heal, expressing that the soreness was worse than anticipated. LaFleur stated that the team would reevaluate Love's ankle status next week before formulating a plan for the rest of the preseason. With Love's absence from practice this week, his participation in the upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday appears doubtful.

Following the Cowboys match, the Cardinals will face the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field – the brother of Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur – to conclude the preseason. Since these games are not part of the standings, Arizona will likely proceed with caution, potentially resting Love during the Dallas game while allowing him to engage in limited practice sessions against the Packers to prepare for the regular season.

Alternatively, Love might miss both games, but gaining live practice experience before the season commences would be the most favorable outcome. The Cardinals' first regular-season game is against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, Sept. 13, a crucial matchup where they must be at their best to secure a victory.