The Arizona Cardinals' rebuilding efforts have hit a significant roadblock with all four of their top rookie draft picks sustaining injuries just weeks into training camp. The team faces the prospect of beginning the season without key players from their 2026 draft class.
Running back Jeremiyah Love, the third player selected in the first round, suffered an ankle injury during the team's first preseason game and is considered out indefinitely. Head coach Mike LaFleur indicated that Love is likely to miss the remainder of the preseason and his availability for the regular season opener is uncertain. Dr. David Chao, a medical expert for OutKick, described Love's injury as a "mild high ankle sprain," with hopes for a Week 1 return, though he cautioned that early returns from such injuries can lead to re-aggravation.
Adding to the Cardinals' injury woes, second-round pick Chase Bisontis will miss the entire season. Bisontis suffered an MCL injury in his left knee during a preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders and will require surgery. As a result, he has been placed on the Injured Reserve list, which mandates sitting out the full season when designated during the preseason.
Quarterback Carson Beck, a third-round selection, also faces an uncertain timeline. Beck sustained a rib injury after a promising performance in the Hall of Fame game and has not practiced since. His status for upcoming practices and games remains unclear as the team monitors his recovery from the reported "soreness."
Kaleb Proctor, the team's fourth-round pick, was placed on preseason injured reserve on July 22, the first day of training camp. Proctor injured his knee during an Organized Team Activity session in June and underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus, ruling him out for the year.
Of the Cardinals' seven selections in the April NFL draft, a majority are now dealing with injuries. The situation has led to commentary suggesting the team is experiencing an unusual and perhaps "cursed" run of misfortune with its rookie class.