The Arizona Cardinals’ backfield plans took an unexpected hit after rookie running back Jeremiyah Love suffered a high-ankle sprain during his preseason debut against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Sports medicine analyst Dr. Jesse Moore raised concerns about the Cardinals’ RBs’ recovery and the injury’s long-term impact.
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“Super healthy throughout college, unfortunately, it only took one game to suffer the dreaded high-ankle sprain in the NFL,” Moore tweeted. “These are very specific injuries to the NFL, and are known to zap explosiveness for up to six months.
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“Even a mild grade one high-ankle sprain takes about 3 to 4 weeks to be able to aggressively cut again. That would be a best case scenario for Love. If this ends up being more of a moderate high-ankle sprain, there is a chance that not only is he not ready for week one”
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Moore added that high-ankle sprains are rotational injuries that affect a player’s ability to plant the foot and rotate to change direction.
Love suffered a rotational tweak to his lower leg/ankle while planting and absorbing contact on a tackle against the Raiders on Friday. He finished the game with 14 total touches, 11 carries for 58 yards and 3 receptions for 14 yards.
The Cardinals are already managing the absence of second-year back Trey Benson, who is sidelined while dealing with a persistent knee meniscus injury. James Conner’s health and workload capacity are still unclear.
With both Love and Benson out of the picture, the Cardinals will likely rely on former Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier.
Jeremiyah Love draws criticism ahead of rookie season
Jeremiyah Love was one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 NFL Draft after the Arizona Cardinals selected him third overall. With his rookie season approaching, offensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon sparked criticism by seemingly downplaying Love’s chances of earning a starting role.
“He’s definitely a rookie. And he’ll keep growing every single day,” Gannon said.
The comment did not sit well with many, and NFL reporter John Frascella hit back at Gannon for undermining the rookie. He pointed to Chip Kelly’s treatment of Ashton Jeanty last season and argued that coaches should hype their young stars rather than lower expectations.
Edited by Nishant
