Cardinals Rule Out Jeremiyah Love With Ankle Injury vs. Rams

The Arizona Cardinals have decided to sit out rookie running back Jeremiyah Love in their upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams due to a lingering left ankle injury, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Love had missed practice all week while dealing with the injury, which had already impacted his performance in recent games.

Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur confirmed Love's absence on Friday, stressing the need to give the rookie sufficient time to heal. Love had previously injured his right ankle during the preseason, but it has since recovered. This time, the issue is with his left ankle, which has been bothering him for several weeks. The former Notre Dame product has been inconsistent in his first NFL season, amassing 245 yards and one touchdown in five games.

His most recent performance, in Arizona's loss to the Detroit Lions, was particularly concerning, as he only managed 22 rushing yards on 12 carries. Head coach LaFleur noted that the ankle injury has hindered Love's ability to make the explosive cuts that once made him a standout running back in college football. Following Love's absence, veteran running back Tyler Allgeier will take the starting role, while Bam Knight is likely to serve as his primary backup.

To bolster their backfield, Arizona plans to call up Evan Hull from the practice squad. Allgeier, though experienced, will find it challenging to replicate Love's athleticism and explosive play style. This injury arrives at a crucial juncture for Arizona, as they gear up for a divisional showdown against the NFC West-leading Rams.

For now, the team is prioritizing Love's long-term health and has not considered placing him on injured reserve, leaving the door open for a potential return in the near future. Following Sunday's game, the Cardinals will reassess Love's condition as they prepare for their next contest.