The Arizona Cardinals released their first depth chart of the season as they get ready to play their regular-season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers, and one detail stood out. Rookie running back Jeremiyah Love, the third overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, is a backup.
Tyler Allgeier, signed in the offseason to a two-year deal in free agency, is listed as the starter.
However, this is consistent with what the Cardinals did in the offseason. Allgeier ran with the offensive starters in practice and generally was the No. 1 running back in training camp.
That doesn't mean Love won't have a significant role in the offense, though. He is expected play a lot.
Of course, he is recovering from a high ankle sprain and his status for Week 1 is a little
uncertain, although head coach Mike LaFleur is optimistic he will play.
Starting the season technically as the backup while he works his way to 100% is a good plan.
There was a second surprise on the depth chart. He is listed as the third kick returner behind Devin Duvernay and cornerback Max Melton. Now, as we have learned in past seasons, the guys listed as kick returners aren't always the guys who do it. Running back Bam Knight and receiver Jalen Brooks both returned kicks at different points last season.
We will watch how the depth chart actually matches up with how the playing rotation is starting on Sunday.
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This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Arizona Cardinals RB Jeremiyah Love listed as No. 2 RB behind Tyler Allgeier
