GLENDALE – The biggest story surrounding the Arizona Cardinals’ offense currently has shifted to why the coaching staff still won’t identify a clear lead running back after spending premium draft capital on Jeremiyah Love. When offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett was asked whether Arizona has a starting running back, his response raised more questions than answers. “I’m really excited about it. Excited for James Conner to get out there and show what he’s got. I mean, all the guys.” When discussing Love’s development, Hackett added, “He’s definitely a rookie.”
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Arizona running back Love (4) warms up during organized team activities at the Training Facility in Tempe on May 27, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
#Cardinals OC Nathaniel Hackett
on whether he sees the RB room as having a starter: “I’m really excited about it. Excited for James [Conner] to get out there and show what he’s got. I mean, all the guys.”
on Jeremiyah Love’s progression: “I mean, he’s definitely a rookie” pic.twitter.com/YcVTBfkrMV
— The Coachspeak Index (@CoachspeakIndex) July 25, 2026
Technically, that’s true. Strategically, it isn’t much of an answer. Love entered the NFL with the reputation of being one of college football’s most explosive offensive weapons. Players with his combination of vision, acceleration and home-run ability aren’t typically drafted to become rotational pieces. They’re drafted to become foundational players. Arizona still has James Conner, whose leadership and physical running style remain more than valuable, along with newcomer Tyler Allgeier. Depth is important over a 17-game season. But depth and uncertainty aren’t the same thing.
Sep 7, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Arizona running back Conner (6) dodges New Orleans Saints linebacker Pete Werner (20) during the first quarter at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
The Cardinals also aren’t built around a dominant offensive line capable of supporting chemistry with a three-man committee. Successful rushing attacks often thrive because one back establishes rhythm, forcing defenses to adjust while creating consistency for the entire offense. If Love isn’t ready, that’s understandable, as rookie adjustments are real. But if Arizona reaches Week 1 without knowing who its featured back is, that signals a larger identity issue rather than healthy competition.
Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Allgeier (25) against Arizona at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Training camp battles are valuable only when they produce clarity. For Cardinals fans, the preseason isn’t just about who wins carries. It’s about whether HC Mike LaFluer and OC Nathaniel Hackett have a defined vision for an offense expected to take a major step forward in 2026. Until a starter emerges, the Cardinals’ biggest offensive question remains unanswered, and that uncertainty may matter more than any preseason highlight.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
