The Arizona Cardinals will be without one of their most promising young offensive players when they face the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. Arizona officially ruled out rookie running back Jeremiyah Love because of a lingering left ankle injury, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The decision comes after Love missed practice throughout the week while dealing with an injury that has affected his performance in recent games.
Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur confirmed Friday that Love would not play, emphasizing the importance of allowing the rookie time to recover. Love previously suffered a right ankle injury during the preseason, but that issue has since healed. His current injury involves his left ankle, which has bothered him for several weeks.
The former Notre Dame standout has struggled to find consistency during his first NFL season, rushing for 245 yards and one touchdown through five games. His latest performance highlighted some of those difficulties. During Arizona's loss to the Detroit Lions last weekend, Love managed just 22 rushing yards on 12 carries.
LaFleur acknowledged earlier this week that the injury has affected Love's ability to make the explosive cuts that helped establish him as one of college football's most dynamic running backs. The coach also revealed Friday that the ankle issue has limited Love's involvement in the passing game. With Love unavailable, veteran running back Tyler Allgeier will start against Los Angeles, while Bam Knight is expected to serve as his primary backup.
Arizona also plans to elevate Evan Hull from the practice squad to provide additional depth. Allgeier brings experience to the Cardinals' backfield, but replacing Love's athleticism and potential for explosive plays presents another challenge for the offense. The injury comes at an important time for Arizona, which is preparing for a divisional matchup against a Rams team looking to strengthen its position in the NFC West.
For now, the Cardinals appear focused on Love's long-term health rather than rushing him back onto the field. LaFleur confirmed that the team has not discussed placing the rookie on injured reserve, leaving open the possibility of a return in the coming weeks. Arizona will reevaluate Love's condition after Sunday's game as the team prepares for its next matchup.
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