Cardinals Name Allgeier Starter, Love Backup for Week 1
The Arizona Cardinals have officially designated Tyler Allgeier as their primary running back for the upcoming season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers. Rookie first-round pick Jeremiyah Love is listed as the second option, with Bam Knight serving as the third choice. This decision comes after Love suffered a high-ankle sprain during the preseason, which limited his availability and led to a cautious approach regarding his workload. Head coach Mike LaFleur expressed confidence in Love's presence on the roster but indicated that the rookie will likely share duties with Allgeier initially. While Love showed promise at Notre Dame, the team is prioritizing his recovery and gradual integration into the lineup.
Key points
- Tyler Allgeier is listed as the No. 1 running back on the Cardinals' Week 1 depth chart.
- Jeremiyah Love is listed as the No. 2 running back, with Bam Knight at No. 3.
- Head coach Mike LaFleur confirmed Love is in the lineup but expects him to split time with Allgeier.
- Love is recovering from a high-ankle sprain sustained in the team's first preseason game.
- The Cardinals are managing Love's workload carefully due to his injury history and rookie status.
Background
Jeremiyah Love, selected as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, suffered a high-ankle sprain in August, raising concerns about his availability for the regular season. Earlier reports indicated that the Cardinals might ease him into action behind veteran Tyler Allgeier. The team's 2026 draft class has faced multiple injury setbacks, including season-ending losses for other key picks, making the management of Love's health a critical priority for the coaching staff.
Why it matters
The decision to start Allgeier over Love reflects the Cardinals' cautious approach to managing a high-profile rookie's injury. It highlights the team's strategy to balance immediate performance with long-term player development, ensuring Love is not overworked while he recovers from his ankle issue. This setup also provides stability in the backfield for the season opener against the Chargers.
What to watch
The Cardinals will monitor Love's progress during the early weeks of the season. If he performs well and recovers fully, he may assume a larger role in the lineup. The team will also evaluate the effectiveness of the Allgeier-Love rotation in determining future depth chart adjustments.
- Cardinals list Tyler Allgeier as RB1, Jeremiyah Love as RB2 on Week 1 depth chart NBC Sports
- Cards' Mike LaFleur optimistic Jeremiyah Love plays in Week 1 ESPN
- Cardinals hopeful RB Jeremiyah Love can play vs. Chargers in Week 1 after preseason ankle injury sports.yahoo.com
- Love behind Allgeier on Cards’ depth chart NBC Sports
- Jeremiyah Love Listed second on unofficial depth chart Fantasy Footballers Podcast
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