Arizona Cardinals rookie running back Jeremiyah Love is dealing with a high ankle sprain that is expected to keep him out for the remainder of the preseason, while his availability for Week 1 remains uncertain.
According to Adam Schefter, Love is unlikely to play again this preseason as Arizona gives the ankle time to recover. Pro Football Doc characterized the injury as a mild high ankle sprain and believes Week 1 remains possible, but his status is still to be determined.
How Did Jeremiyah Love Injure His Ankle?
Love suffered the ankle injury during Thursday's preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders, a contest in which the rookie running back recorded 14 touches.
Immediately after the game, Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur indicated the injury did not initially appear significant and said Love could have returned to the game if needed.
The outlook became less certain Friday when LaFleur said Love woke up more sore than expected. LaFleur originally said Love would be out for at least a week.
On Sunday, LaFleur declined to specify whether Love was dealing with a low or high ankle sprain. The injury has since been reported as a high ankle sprain.
Pro Football Doc: Week 1 Remains Possible
Pro Football Doc believes Love suffered a mild high ankle sprain, offering some optimism despite the diagnosis.
"Mild high ankle sprain. Hope is Week 1 but TBD," Pro Football Doc said.
High ankle sprains can affect a running back's ability to cut, accelerate and push off, making Love's progress over the next several weeks important to monitor.
Will Jeremiyah Love Play in Week 1?
Love is unlikely to play again during the preseason, but he has not been ruled out for the Cardinals' regular-season opener.
The mild nature of the high ankle sprain provides optimism that he could recover in time for Week 1. However, his increased soreness following the Raiders game and the uncertainty surrounding his recovery make his availability TBD entering the final weeks of the preseason.
For now, Week 1 remains a realistic target rather than a confirmed return date, with Love's practice participation and response to treatment likely to provide a clearer indication of his availability.
