GLENDALE – Just over two weeks away from the Arizona Cardinals season opener, with the biggest question still up in the air: Will Jeremiyah Love be ready? The third overall pick was sensational in preseason debut vs. the Las Vegas Raiders. However, he played a little too hard, suffering a high ankle sprain. The injury ended his preseason reps immediately, as the team is taking no chances with prized rookie.
The heavy precaution can lead to worry amongst fans. ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss wrote on Friday about the team keeping him off the field for games and practice until potentially the week of Sept. 13th, which is the season opener at the Los Angeles Chargers.
Aug 13, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love (4) runs during a preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Brytus-Imagn Images
Weinfuss on ETA on Love’s return to field:
“When he was healthy, Love was everything the Cardinals imagined — fast, quick, strong, a great route runner, great hands. His teammates raved about him and all the facets of his game. When he finally made his debut against the Raiders in the second preseason game, he ended up with a high ankle sprain and hasn’t practiced or played since. He won’t play again this preseason and might not practice until Week 1.”
Arizona Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love (4) practices during training camp at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on July 26, 2026. Credits: Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The loss of preseason reps is manageable, but the franchise holding off Love from getting work done in practice could lead to early season struggles. Going from practice speed to game speed could be a challenge for the rookie, that has only had 11 carries this preseason process. The All-American’s raw talent could be enough to bridge the skill gap if need be, but it’s a tall order for any player.
Arizona did just waive running back Trey Benson, putting plenty of pressure on Tyler Allegier to carry the workload. A reliance on Allegier in the early weeks of the season could allow Love some real practice time before beginning his professional career. Only time will tell for the Cardinals if Love will be ready by Week 1.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
