Cardinals' Jeremiyah Love a Mystery Absent vs. Panthers
Cardinals fans will get their first look at Carson Beck in an NFL uniform in Thursday's Hall of Fame Game, but those hoping to see Jeremiyah Love will have to wait. Love won't play against the Panthers, coach Mike LaFleur announced Wednesday, ruling out the No. 3 pick ahead of the team's preseason opener.
The Cardinals are expected to sit key starters in the Hall of Fame Game, including quarterback Jacoby Brissett. LaFleur didn't say who would start at running back on Thursday night. If Tyler Allgeier plays while key starters sit, it could be a sign that Love is set to be the Cardinals' No. 1 running back entering the season.
The Cardinals haven't ruled Love out of any other preseason games, so he could still get some game action this summer. Arizona's decision to sit Love is not injury-related, which might be the best sign yet that the team has big plans for the rookie out of Notre Dame this season.
Love's absence could be an indication that Arizona sees both Love and Allgeier as key pieces of its backfield that aren't worth risking in a meaningless game. The Cardinals have listed Allgeier as their No. 1 running back on their first depth chart of training camp.
The Cardinals' projected RB depth chart has Love at the top, with Allgeier in the second spot. The team's decision to rest Love in the Hall of Fame Game could be a sign that they're prioritizing his health and want to get a better look at him in other preseason games.
The Cardinals' roster is still taking shape, and Love's absence in the Hall of Fame Game is just one of many factors to consider. As the team prepares for the regular season, fans will be watching to see how Love fits into the lineup.
The Cardinals have not commented on whether Love will play in the team's next preseason game. Fans will have to wait and see if Love will make his debut in the next few weeks.
Source: Yahoo Sports